So has the Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT), which just revised its travel advisory for members. They recommend Americans avoid all but essential travel to the United States. This advisory offers that response to the “political landscape” that the Trump administration has built. It has turned into an obstacle for Canadians and other foreigners seeking to cross the U.S. border.
If the recent air travel crisis caused by the pandemic taught core programs, travelers have had enough. Canadian citizen Jasmine Mooney was arrested when she attempted to cross into the US. She was not the only one; two German tourists and a Welsh backpacker were deported. These cases reflect broader concerns as reports surface about foreigners being sent to detention or processing centers for extended periods, sometimes exceeding seven days.
The CAUT’s warning particularly targets individuals whose research may conflict with the current U.S. administration’s policies, as well as those who identify as transgender. In their letter, the organization highlighted how these communities are facing increased targeting at the U.S.-Mexico border. Indeed, in March, U.S. Customs and Border Protection was happy to announce a record drop in crossings, this time from Canada into the United States. That ended up being a 32 percent decrease, or about 864,000 fewer passengers than the same month last year.
The Canadian government recently revised its travel advisory. This amendment will have a severe impact on UAE residents who are making travel plans to visit the U.S. The advisory warns that immigrant travelers will be subject to additional scrutiny and questioning from border officials, and even possible detention if entry is refused. This climate of doubt has led travelers to rethink their plans in droves.
The CAUT’s ruling marks a growing concern. It underscores the profound effects of U.S. immigration policies on academic freedom and personal safety. Rising political tensions are taking a heavy toll on cross-border relations. Here’s what Canadian university instructors need to know about travelling to the United States.
