Borders and Freedom: Reflecting on Digital Nomadism and Global Unity

The concept of "we are all citizens of the earth" is appealing but often overlooks the privileges of those who can easily cross borders. As Audre Lorde said,

"I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own."

For digital nomads and expats, who enjoy the freedom to travel and live in various countries, this ideal can sometimes be used to minimize or downplay the impact of their privilege. This occurs in several ways:

1. Justifying Mobility: Digital nomads and expats may use the notion of global unity to justify their ability to move freely across borders, often overlooking how their privilege allows them to do so while others are trapped by economic or political constraints. By framing their freedom as a natural right for all, they may unintentionally obscure the specific barriers that limit mobility for many.

2. Ignoring Local Impacts: When digital nomads and expats relocate, they might not fully consider the impact of their presence on local communities. This can include contributing to rising living costs or engaging in cultural appropriation. Using the idea of global unity can sometimes serve as a way to sidestep responsibility for these effects, as it assumes that their presence should be universally accepted and beneficial.

3. Overshadowing Systemic Inequities: By focusing on a universal concept of freedom, there is a risk of overshadowing the systemic inequities that prevent others from experiencing the same opportunities. Digital nomads and expats may, consciously or unconsciously, use global unity to avoid confronting the realities of privilege and exclusion faced by those who cannot easily cross borders or benefit from the same freedoms.

4. Diminishing the Struggle: Utilizing the notion of global unity can sometimes diminish the real struggles faced by those who cannot leave their home countries. It may suggest that the barriers are merely a matter of perspective, rather than deeply entrenched issues of inequality and systemic oppression that require targeted action and reform.

   
   

At K’amoj Ri’i’l, we are dedicated to addressing the complexities of privilege and mobility by fostering genuine reconciliation and understanding. We work to bridge cultural gaps and build respect among expats, digital nomads, and local communities while honoring Indigenous rights and heritage. By emphasizing cultural sensitivity and mindfulness, we confront disparities and strive for true equity and inclusion. Our mission is to ensure that the ideals of global unity and freedom are meaningful and accessible to everyone, not just a privileged few, thus contributing to a more just and harmonious world.

As we continue this work, we reflect on the deeper implications of global mobility and privilege. Simone Seoul captures this sentiment profoundly, urging us to question the narratives surrounding the "digital nomad" lifestyle and the often-unexamined values it may carry. Her words challenge us to consider the broader impact of this lifestyle, particularly on those who are less free to move about the world.

Disclaimer:

Ideas for this insight by (me!) Carly, with writing support from AI

—without which my ideas would stay stuck 😊

The information has been carefully reviewed, but mistakes can happen

—whether by humans or robots 🤖