Is It Unreasonable For Canadians to Insist on Border Closure Until the U.S. Demonstrates Greater Initiatives to Curb COVID-19?

As a proud Canadian, I firmly believe that it is entirely reasonable for Canada to insist on keeping the border closed until the U.S. takes significant steps to curb the spread of COVID-19. The following discussion will delve into the reasons behind this perspective, highlighting why such a precaution is not an overreaction.

Why Maintain the Border Closure?

The primary reason for maintaining the border closure is the sheer volume of individuals traveling across the border, potentially bringing the virus into Canada. Lets consider a few critical aspects:

Public Health Concerns

Canadians have been working tirelessly to keep the coronavirus under control, ensuring that the number of deaths is manageable. The health of Canadians is a top priority, and we are committed to safeguarding our communities. By restricting unnecessary border crossings, we prevent the spread of the virus and protect our vulnerable populations.

Healthcare System Stress

Our healthcare system, funded by taxes, is no stranger to challenges during a pandemic. We rely on each other to follow public health guidelines. Abiding by these guidelines not only protects our individual health but also supports the overall healthcare system. Allowing unvaccinated or poorly protected individuals to enter Canada would put a significant strain on our hospitals, leading to potential healthcare system collapse. This would be a direct impact of their actions, putting Canadians at risk.

Canadian Response to the Pandemic

To understand why such measures are necessary, we need to examine how Canadians have responded to the pandemic. Here are a few key strategies:

Public Health Measures

Canadians have adopted strict public health measures:

Social Distancing: In places like restaurants, stores, and clinics, people maintain a safe distance from strangers. This behavior is socially acceptable and considered responsible by community standards. Masks: While masks are not a political statement, they are seen as a responsible behavior. Wearing a mask is socially acceptable and is even perceived positively by shop clerks and waiters. Failure to wear a mask is seen as irresponsible and unacceptable by the general public.

Why Americans Should Follow Guidelines?

Canadians adhere to public health measures to protect themselves and the Canadian healthcare system. If Americans do not respect these guidelines and come into Canada, it could undermine all the efforts we have put into curbing the spread of the virus.

Impact on Healthcare

Allowing Americans who are not taking reasonable precautions to enter Canada would overwhelm our hospitals and potentially compromise the healthcare system. This is a direct result of their behaviors and would impact all Canadians. Until the U.S. demonstrates a genuine commitment to controlling the virus and lowering case numbers, it is not reasonable to open the border to unrestricted travel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, maintaining the border closure until the U.S. takes substantial steps to curb COVID-19 is neither unreasonable nor an overreaction. It is a necessary precaution to protect the health of Canadians and the stability of our healthcare system. The actions of individuals travel to and from Canada have a direct impact on public health and safety. Until the U.S. shows real commitment to mitigating the virus, it is in everyone's best interest to keep the border closed. Canadians deserve the fruits of their labor, including the freedoms and protections they have earned through their unwavering efforts.