The far-left Guardian newspaper has taken a bold stance, suggesting to its readers a radical form of consumer activism: divesting from all products and services originating from the United States under the current administration.
In a piece published this weekend, author Jeremy Ettinghausen outlines his personal crusade to boycott American goods entirely. His self-imposed challenge includes a set of four rigorous guidelines.
Among these are abstaining from all American-made products and services, avoiding friendships with Americans, and steering clear of art forms (film, music, television) produced by U.S. creators.
He articulates his thoughts in the article:
I really wish I had a Tesla. Ideally, it would be a Cybertruck, but any Tesla would do. Then I could cover it with those “I bought this before Elon went mad” stickers, shamefully sell it at a loss, and compose a performative social media post about my inability to bear the guilt of driving it around town.
But since I don’t own a car, let alone a Tesla, I’ve felt powerless to join the anti-Musk and anti-Trump protests that are gaining traction globally. Until now.
…
This effort isn’t about rejecting modernity or the comforts it brings. It’s about turning one’s back on America and embracing Europe instead.
One day, I would love to return to the States, indulge in a cheeseburger at a Brooklyn dive bar, and raise glasses with old and new friends over shots of rail bourbon in the Land of the Free. But that day is not today, not under the current regime.
Just last month, the paper also featured an op-ed by former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich, who similarly recommended that foreigners reconsider travel to the United States.
Reich stated:
Like most bullies, the regime can only be restrained if everyone stands up to the bullying – including you.
If you are contemplating a trip to the United States, please think twice. Why reward Trump’s America with your tourist dollars?
Tourism by non-Americans is a substantial source of tax revenue and a vital “export” for this nation. There’s no reason for you to indirectly support Trump’s economy.
Despite its British origins, The Guardian continues to wield considerable influence in American discourse, bolstered by a robust American coverage section and op-eds from an array of leading progressive voices.
Nonetheless, its blatant anti-American sentiment is now laid bare for all to see.
