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Joint US-Canada protest against Trump along Detroit River

  • 22.03.2025 19:00
  • wsws.org
  • Keywords: protest, unrest

Hundreds of protesters gathered on both sides of the US-Canada border along the Detroit River to oppose Trump's tariffs and nationalism, demonstrating international solidarity against economic warfare and rising fascism.

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Estimated market influence

Wayne State University

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Analyst rating: N/A

The university's professor spoke out against the education system, indicating negative influence.

Manuel Moroun

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Owning the Ambassador Bridge which is central to trade between US and Canada, affected by tariffs.

Context

Analysis of Joint US-Canada Protest Against Trump Along Detroit River

Economic Impact

  • Tariffs: President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum products in February, with additional tariffs threatened on April 2.
  • Canadian Response: Canada retaliated with 25% tariffs on $29.8 billion worth of US-made products.
  • Job Impact: The tariffs threaten hundreds of thousands of jobs in the highly integrated economies of both countries.

Trade Data

  • Detroit/Windsor Border: The busiest international crossing in North America, handling over $323 million worth of products and materials daily.
  • Key Products: Thirty percent of trade between the US and Canada flows across the Ambassador Bridge, which was visible from the protest.

Protest Details

  • Location: Demonstrations took place in Hart Plaza (Detroit) and Riverfront (Windsor), with protesters visible across the Detroit River.
  • Participation: Several hundred protesters attended, including a Detroit high school student holding a sign reading “There is always money for war, but not education.”

Organizational Efforts

  • ** Organizer**: Audrey Dubois, a teacher, organized the protest within days, attracting over 1,000 pledges to join on both sides of the border.
  • Significance: The joint protest highlighted cross-border solidarity and opposition to Trump’s policies.

Broader Issues Raised

  • Fascism and Education Cuts: Protesters expressed concerns about rising fascism, cuts to education, and the impact on essential services.
  • Gaza Genocide: Demonstrators condemned US support for the Gaza genocide and criticized Netanyahu’s actions in Israel.
  • Immigration Rights: Concerns were raised about Gestapo-style raids against immigrants and opponents of Trump’s policies, including Mahmoud Khalil.

Market Implications

  • Trade War Risks: The tariffs and retaliatory measures could disrupt trade flows worth billions of dollars daily, affecting industries on both sides of the border.
  • Border Relations: The Detroit/Windsor corridor, a critical economic link, became a focal point for political tensions and protests.
  • Consumer Backlash: The protest reflects growing public opposition to nationalist policies and their impact on jobs and trade relations.

Long-Term Effects

  • Regulatory Concerns: Potential long-term effects include ongoing trade disputes, regulatory conflicts, and strained diplomatic relations between the US and Canada.
  • Global Implications: The protest underscores broader anti-fascist and pro-solidarity sentiments, which could influence future international business and political dynamics.

This analysis highlights the intersection of economic policy, market forces, and social movements in shaping the business landscape between the US and Canada.