In a defiant stance against growing calls for Canadians to boycott the United States, columnist Rick Bell has announced his plans to travel to Chicago, embracing American culture and rejecting what he calls the "Elbows Up" mentality of political tourism.
A Personal Journey Amid Political Tensions
Bell makes no apologies for his upcoming trip to the United States, specifically to the city of Chicago. He plans to watch a Chicago Cubs baseball game at historic Wrigley Field, enjoy the city's renowned architecture and art scene, visit popular bars, and sample local cuisine including the traditional Chicago-style hot dog—notably without ketchup.
"Call me a traitor. Tell me I'm not a real Canadian. Demand the authorities seize my passport," Bell writes, anticipating criticism from those who believe Canadians should avoid traveling to the U.S. during the current political climate. "Such ravings are what they are. They are ravings."
The Boycott Debate and Patriotism Questions
The columnist directly addresses Canadians who are boycotting the United States, particularly those who frame their travel decisions as a test of patriotism or moral superiority. Bell argues he doesn't understand how avoiding a Cubs game or refusing to step on American soil achieves any meaningful goal beyond what he considers "bogus feelings of moral superiority."
"I do not understand Canadians boycotting the U.S. and then going on about how the travel decisions people make somehow define who is and who is not a true Canadian," Bell states. "Quite frankly, I couldn't care less where folks go on vacation. Fill your boots but don't tell me the choices Canadians make are a test of patriotism."
Understanding the Political Context
Bell acknowledges that many Canadians harbor strong negative feelings toward former U.S. President Donald Trump, including disgust at mentions of Canada as a "51st state" and anger over various policies and statements. However, he questions how this political anger should translate into travel restrictions for ordinary citizens.
"What I do not understand, what I do not get, is how someone's anger towards President Donald Trump leads to the idea true Canadians should not be visiting America," he writes, comparing the boycott advocates to Toronto hockey fans who booed American gold medalist Auston Matthews at an Olympic celebration.
Positive American Experiences and Cultural Appreciation
The columnist shares his positive experiences with Americans throughout his career, describing them as friendly, welcoming neighbors who aren't afraid to speak their minds. Bell recalls covering significant events across the United States that provided some of the most memorable stories of his journalism career.
- Championship fights in Las Vegas
- Home run hitters in St. Louis
- The Heaven's Gate cult tragedy in southern California
"The Americans I have met have been good to me," Bell writes. "They have been friendly. They have been welcoming. They are our neighbours."
A Contrast to Quiet Travelers
Bell notes that while some Canadians travel to the United States discreetly to avoid criticism from the "Elbows Up crowd," he chooses to be open about his plans and make no apologies for his appreciation of American culture. He even mentioned his upcoming trip on national television, knowing it would draw criticism from those who disagree with his stance.
The columnist's defiant message concludes with a simple question to his critics: "I like the U.S. You got a problem with that?" His planned Chicago trip serves as both a personal vacation and a public statement about the separation between political opinions and individual travel freedoms.
