A wave of artists are reconsidering tours over U.S. border detention fears
A wave of musicians, poets, and novelists are reconsidering upcoming tours and travel over fears of being detained at the U.S. border or arrested within the country. This decision comes after Canadian-born rock icon Neil Young, U.S. best-selling romance novelist Ali Hazelwood, Palestinian poet Mosab Abu Toha, and British punk rock band UK Subs have either cancelled upcoming tours, expressed worries about potential issues, or have already been denied entry to the United States.
Neil Young, who is a dual Canadian-American citizen and known for hits such as Heart of Gold and Harvest Moon, expressed concerns about his upcoming Love Earth world tour, which is set to kick off in Sweden in June. Young, who has been vocal in his criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump, fears that his views could lead to issues at the border. Similarly, romance novelist Ali Hazelwood, author of popular books like Deep End and The Love Hypothesis, cancelled her April book tour in the U.K. due to safety concerns surrounding travel outside and back into the U.S.
Other incidents have also raised red flags for those in the creative industry. Members of the British punk rock band UK Subs were denied entry to the U.S. in March, with bassist Alvin Gibbs suggesting that their public criticism of the U.S. administration may have been a factor. Additionally, there have been reports of international students and scholars facing detainment for participating in pro-Palestinian demonstrations or criticizing Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
Palestinian poet and author Mosab Abu Toha, who fled to the U.S. from the Gaza Strip in December 2023, has cancelled all of his upcoming events at U.S. universities due to safety concerns. Toha expressed feeling unsafe traveling after witnessing students and university professors being abducted on the streets. Threats made against him and his family online have further contributed to his decision to prioritize safety over public appearances.
These incidents highlight the growing concerns among artists and creatives about their safety and freedom of expression while traveling to and within the United States. The fear of being detained or facing repercussions for their political views has led many to rethink their travel plans and prioritize their safety above all else. As the landscape of international travel continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these concerns will impact the future of artistic endeavors and cultural exchange.
