To the Editor:

       The aid given by countries, such as our own, can be seen as large amounts of money being thrown at poorer countries in the hope that they find a better way to live. Much of the world’s poorest countries have large, powerful leaders who monopolize any aid they receive. This leaves the poorest civilians to fend for themselves in a stagnating economy as the few in power live in luxury. Changing the way that we support our neighbors requires a transition in the mindset of our country and how we address global poverty.

We must pressure our nation’s leaders to reconsider how we spend our funds dedicated to helping countries in need. Supporting more sustainable, community focused projects that do not benefit the oppressive leaders must be the goal. Before donating, you should research the organization you are giving to and their mission; understand how they help others and decide whether it is a fundamentally good mission.  Call our representatives, whether that be Jay Inslee, Patty Murray, or Maria Cantwell, and ask them what they are doing to aid humans globally.  

A recent letter to the editor for this paper called upon us as nation to support the growth of our International Affairs Budget and I am in full support of that.  However, we can do more.  We can not only expand the budget, but also improve how it serves and benefits the world.  A better global community starts with supporting organizations and programs that care for those who need aid most, and every person can help through giving educated donations and pushing against our government’s funding process of the oppressors.

Alexander Hill

West Seattle