“Don’t come to the USA…”
As a Canadian who has travelled to the USA more times than I can remember, it came as a shock.
It was March of this year and we were having a marketing meeting for my book Lessons From Cats For Surviving Fascism. The usual plans were bandied about: social media, traditional media, in-person book signings.
As my publisher (who are fabulous) is based in New York it felt obvious that I should probably start my book launch there. In the Big Apple. The city that embodies all that America claims to be—commerce, culture, and freedom.
The thought of launching a book that I authored in NYC was thrilling.
Then came the bizarre reality of the current US political environment.
“It’s probably not a great idea for you to cross the border right now.”
“Yeah, don’t come to the USA right now.”
What?? But it’s just a book about cats and fascists… with some jokes about MAGA… and Mar-a-Lago…. and Trump. Ohhh…
Now, let’s be clear.
I am a middle-aged (if I live to 110) straight white man who speaks english.
I’d probably be fine.
Which underlines the insidiousness.
The current US position on ‘visitors’ is such that my book tour at best could be unexpectedly delayed or at worst could start out in New York and end up in El Salvador.
So, the book launch was switched to the UK. Where my UK publisher (also fabulous) helped secure a book signing in the oldest book shop in the UK, Hatchard’s.
At Oscar Wilde’s desk (we’re both kinda funny… that’s where the comparison ends).
Let me state… I love America.
It is a beautiful country.
I have many American friends and family.
I have spent many wonderful times there.
However, it has been bewildering to watch Trump be allowed to almost single-handedly destroy every ounce of good will America has built up over its history.
The world used to turn to America for stability.
No more.
At least not now.
I will return to America… someday.
Perhaps after Trump’s regime collapses.
In the meantime, maybe more Americans will read my little book.
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Just because of the subject matter, a MAGA border could detain you. Stay in Canada (I wish I was there) and keep making me laugh with your content