I don’t travel much any more. Years ago we would think nothing of crossing over to Buffalo or New York state for a quick trip just for fun. We move very far from home any more so this doesn’t bother me.

However, I keep talking to friends and relatives who just casually mention that they want to go for a trip to Florida, New York, LA or some state somewhere for a short holiday. I warn all of them to stay away and if they do go over, make sure your passports and identification is up to date. I warn all my Native friends as much as possible to not bother because of the colour of their skin and appearance, they have more of a chance of something going wrong on their trip. I warn them that there are more reports of travellers and tourists getting arrested by immigration or people being turned away because of what they wrote on the internet. I warn them to not take any devices over the border because chances are, officials will order them to unlock devices and log into your social media accounts whether you like it or not.

I’ve successfully discouraged several people from going there and convinced them instead to spend a bit more money and go to Europe instead. Others are scared enough now to not bother heading to the US.

It’s going to take a long time to feel safe travelling there again.