Fighting Back Against Trump’s Unfair Tariffs: What YOU Can Do

As you drink your coffee this morning, I want you to think about this.

While Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canada don’t technically break CUSMA, they absolutely violate the spirit of free trade that this agreement was meant to protect. And as a Canadian, that concerns me. Why? Because it shows what Trump is capable of. First, tariffs, then what?

CUSMA was supposed to prevent trade wars, yet the U.S. is justifying these tariffs under the guise of national security—citing fentanyl and illegal immigration, which have nothing to do with Canadian trade. The truth is, CUSMA lacks strong enforcement mechanisms to stop the U.S. from pulling these kinds of moves. Legal experts like Gus Van Harten have made it clear: treaties can be broken. And right now, that’s exactly what’s happening.

So what can we do? How do we, as Canadians, push back against this blatant economic aggression? Here’s how:

1. Buy Canadian—Support Our Own Economy

If the U.S. wants to make trade difficult, let’s make sure our money stays here at home. Instead of buying American goods, we can actively choose Canadian-made alternatives. For example, instead of picking up Heinz ketchup—an American brand—why not go for French’s, which sources its tomatoes right here in Canada? Already, grocery stores are making your job easier by labeling Canadian items right on the shelves. Look for the Canadian flag, or if not there, read your labels. Buying Canadian sends a powerful economic message.

2. Boycott Key U.S. Products—Target Red State Goods

British Columbia’s Premier, David Eby, has already taken action by pulling American liquor brands from government store shelves—specifically from Republican-led, or “red” states that support Trump’s tariffs. We can follow suit by avoiding products from these regions, even if they still are on the shelves. Instead of buying Kentucky bourbon, why not try a high-quality Canadian whisky like Crown Royal? If we strategically redirect our spending, U.S. businesses will feel the impact.

3. Travel Canada First—Keep Tourism Dollars at Home

Instead of planning a trip to Florida or California, why not explore our own world-class destinations? Every year, Canadians spend billions vacationing in the U.S.—money that could be fueling our own tourism industry. Swap a trip to Disneyland for a visit to Banff, Montreal, or the Maritimes. Let’s keep our tourism dollars where they benefit us most. Afterall, nature is much more impressive than that man-man tourist trap anyway.

4. Make Our Voices Heard—Protest Here at Home

We don’t need to travel to Washington to make an impact—we can send a strong message right here in Canada. Protesting outside U.S. consulates and embassies in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa would show the American government that we’re not taking these tariffs lightly. Imagine thousands of Canadians gathering, sort of like when the freedom convoy took siege of Ottawa, but for a legitimate reason this time. We could wave signs that say “Fair Trade, Not Fear Tactics” or “Skip the Tariffs”. Peaceful demonstrations can also push our own leaders to take a tougher stance and ensure our concerns stay in the headlines.

5. Pressure Our Leaders—Demand Stronger Retaliation

We need to make sure our government is fighting back with equal force. Contacting MPs and demanding aggressive countermeasures—like tariffs on American steel, aluminum, or agricultural products—ensures that our leaders don’t let this slide. If Trump’s tariffs hurt our industries, we have every right to hit back where it hurts them most. I was pleased to see a quick response last night from the Federal Government.

6. Support Canada’s Counter-Tariffs

As our government imposes retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, it’s not just politics—it’s economic self-defense. If Trump wants to tax Canadian steel and aluminum, we should respond by slapping tariffs on American dairy, produce, and consumer goods. For example, a tariff on Wisconsin cheese or Florida oranges would put pressure on U.S. farmers, who, in turn, would pressure Trump. Supporting these countermeasures is essential.

7. Use Social Media to Rally Support

A viral campaign can be just as effective as government action. If Canadians flood social media with hashtags like #BuyCanadian or #NoTrumpTariffs, we can raise awareness and coordinate boycotts. Imagine trending campaigns encouraging Canadians to swap American-made products for homegrown alternatives. This kind of grassroots movement can amplify our voice beyond borders.

Final Thought: We Have More Power Than We Think

Trump may think he can push Canada around, but we have the power to fight back. Every dollar we spend, every vacation we plan, every product we boycott—it all adds up. If we stand together, we can send a strong message that unfair tariffs come with a price.

NOW is the time to stand up for Canada. 🇨🇦