I come from a country where the government is corrupt.  They claim they have a democracy, in actuality I think it's just a front.  Even when the facts are being presented to an official, they often brush it under the rug and act as though the facts are irrelevant especially when it's not in the best interest of their "pockets."  When I came to the US, I was told "that doesn't happen here."  I'm learning more everyday that is does happen in the US, even in state that doesn't have representation in Congress.  This experience has taught me to be more proactive in government.