Same Number, Same Hood

It’s difficult to even entertain the idea I’m about to write, but here we are—facing the possibility that, in my lifetime, the country I was born and raised in, Canada, could be annexed by the country I’ve lived in and built my life over the last 20 years, the United States. The thought is surreal, almost unimaginable, yet it lingers in the back of my mind like a storm cloud on the horizon.

I’ll start with a quote from the genius emcee Homeboy Sandman, from his song Same Number, Same Hood: “Angel from Elmhurst, where I’m stuck like Elmers, ‘cause I don’t wanna leave my region, my allegiance, that’s a part of me I grieved and learned to read, that’s the artery. But really, Angel from NY, where I’ve been bugged out, buns out, screaming out banzai!”

That verse resonates deeply with me. Oshawa in the ‘90s was a special place—a time of hockey games, small-town charm, and the kind of simplicity that feels almost mythical now.  The Record Bar, Pat and Mikes, Square Boys, the OC, The Generals run, shit was legendary.   In 2000, I left Oshawa for New York City, a move that marked the halfway point of my life so far. My father and his family are American, which granted me U.S. citizenship, but growing up in Canada, I always felt a strange pull toward America, even if I couldn’t fully explain it. I felt Canadian in my heart and soul, yet at home in America, a duality that has defined much of my life.

As a kid, I spent summers and spring breaks in Pittsburgh, taking in the culture, the food, and the sense of belonging that came with being around family. I am, in every sense, a person of both countries. My memories of Canada are as vivid and cherished as those of America—poutine in the winter, the sound of skates on ice, the quiet beauty of snow-covered streets. And yet, I’ve come to love New Jersey, a place I never expected to call home. Who would have thought a hot slice of pizza on the beach could rival the comfort of poutine on a cold winter’s day?

America is an incredible place to live, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunities it has afforded me. The capitalist democratic society here has allowed me to build a life, pursue my dreams, find my place in the world, and start my family. But my gratitude does not mean blind allegiance. I have been critical of every administration in my lifetime—from Bush to Clinton, and especially Trump, whom I’ve opposed since the moment he announced his candidacy. What’s happening now, however, feels different. It’s not just politics as usual; it’s something darker, more insidious.

What we’re witnessing is a convergence of The Handmaid’s Tale and Weimar Germany, playing out in real-time.   The divisive rhetoric about annexing Canada and Greenland, aligning closely with figures like Putin, and the suggestion of pursuing a third term are deeply troubling actions that echo authoritarian tendencies. These behaviors raise serious concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and the potential rise of fascist-like ideologies. Such developments threaten the foundational principles of freedom, sovereignty, and democratic governance.  The installation of loyalists, the belittling of democratic leaders like Canada’s Prime Minister, and the demonization of immigrants are not just political strategies—they are the hallmarks of fascism. It’s in your face, unapologetic, and impossible to ignore. And I, for one, am not here for it.  It is deeply concerning to witness actions that could undermine democratic institutions, such as attempts to consolidate power, politicize agencies like the FBI and CIA, or foster an environment where corruption and oligarchy thrive. If such trends continue unchecked, the consequences could be severe, potentially leading to a dramatic and dangerous shift in the foundations of governance and society.  The release of individuals involved in the January 6 insurrection, the reluctance to condemn extremist displays like Elon’s Nazi salute, the politicization of institutions such as the DOJ and DOD, and the increasing influence of Christian Nationalism within the military are alarming developments. These actions suggest a troubling shift away from the principles of freedom and democracy that have long defined America, raising concerns about the future of the nation’s democratic foundations.

As much as I love America, just like Neil McCauley says in my all-time favorite movie Heat, “Don’t let yourself get attached to anything you are not willing to walk out on in 30 seconds  flat if you feel the heat around the corner.” My love for this country is not unconditional. It’s rooted in the ideals it claims to stand for—freedom, equality, and democracy. If those ideals are betrayed, if the heat of authoritarianism creeps too close, I won’t hesitate to walk away. My allegiance is to principles, not to a flag.

So, referring back to Homeboy Sandman, when push comes to shove, I’m pushing and shoving for the artery.