National pride…
This is an amusing novelty, but I can’t see actually pulling it off.
There is the rhetorical problem of joining a discourse community without the essential characteristics of membership. No handbook can bring you up to speed. That’s merely imitation. And imitation will only get you into trouble.
Further, there’s more to being a member of a nation than the display of symbols or competence in a dialect. You have to adopt the ethos. That’s why I disagree with this:
Some of the Canadians are thrilled by the idea. Others are offended, because they don’t want what they call “rude” Americans disguising themselves as Canadians.
Rude? This is anecdotal to be sure, but see if it checks with your experiences: I’ve traveled many miles in Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, and much of Europe. In every case, the locals confirm that Americans on vacation:
- Tip more
- Include local service workers as part of the family
- Keep in touch with locals and those who serve
- Make friends easily, openly, and equally
Some of our unfortunate international choices of late have hacked off much of the world. But I’m sure not going to don a symbol that hides who I really am and who we really are. (via Political Wire)
