Descending beneath the streets of New York City into the labyrinthine subway system, you’d often encounter women with babies strapped to their backs, selling candy to distracted commuters. Yet, the exchange of crumpled banknotes was rare. The babies, nestled in fabric, would either doze or observe with wide eyes, seemingly accustomed to a life in motion.
When we arrived in the U.S. over a year ago, these women were a common sight on the subway. Now, as we prepare to return to Australia, they have vanished, driven away by the fear of arrest and deportation in America’s largest city.
Our move to New York from Newcastle in August 2024 coincided with a heated election campaign. Then-presidential candidate Donald Trump was making headlines with controversial statements about immigrants and promises of massive deportations. Watching the election results, it was evident that his rhetoric and promises to restore American “greatness” resonated with many voters.
Adjusting to Life in New York
As Trump secured victory, my nine-year-old daughter struggled with the outcome, having hoped to see a woman in the Oval Office. While parts of the country celebrated, we adjusted to our new life, navigating the subway, seeking decent coffee, and settling the kids into school.
On their first day, a fellow parent welcomed me with a hug, humorously warning of the rubbish-strewn streets and the smell of weed on our walk to school in Greenwich Village. Coming from Australian schools with expansive playgrounds, the adjustment to New York life was significant. The children adapted to climbing stairs to their classrooms and playing American football on asphalt streets.
The paths along the Hudson River became our playground, where we contended with runners to carve out space for soccer or baseball. Despite the challenges, the city offered unique experiences and a vibrant community.
Political Turmoil and Its Impact
The American people might not have shattered the glass ceiling, but Trump’s return to the White House has been marked by significant, history-making moments. The Department of Homeland Security reports that the administration is on track to deport nearly 600,000 illegal aliens by the end of Trump’s first year back in office, igniting fear and protests across the nation.
The Trump administration is on track to “shatter historic records and deport nearly 600,000 illegal aliens by the end of President Donald Trump’s first year since returning to office.”
One June evening, while clearing dinner dishes, the sound of sirens interrupted our TV coverage of protests in Los Angeles. My 12-year-old son watched from the window as police vehicles raced down Seventh Avenue. The protests had reached downtown Manhattan, with reports of officers forcibly separating families during arrests.
This city, built by immigrants, has seen numerous demonstrations since, yet Trump remains firm against interference with immigration enforcement. The atmosphere in the “land of the free” has shifted, with consequences for those who speak out against prevailing narratives.
Freedom of Speech Under Scrutiny
Speaking out in America can now lead to repercussions. Individuals have faced job losses or suspensions for comments on social media or public platforms. A Turkish student was detained after co-authoring an opinion piece, highlighting the risks for foreigners expressing their views.
When I published a column on the administration’s stance on free speech, concerns arose about potential repercussions during future U.S. visits. My daughter, reading over my shoulder, asked, “Can Trump get you for writing that?”
While writing about censorship might not seem revolutionary, it was with some trepidation that I returned to the U.S. from Australia. I prepared for the worst, buying AirTags for my children in case of separation at the border. Fortunately, our entry was uneventful, leaving me feeling overly cautious.
Historical Narratives and Cultural Reflections
Trump’s influence extends to reshaping historical narratives. He has been accused of attempting to “whitewash” America’s racial history through executive orders and reviews of Smithsonian museums. During a visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, I met Sandra White Shelley, a navy veteran, who expressed concern over these efforts.
“We didn’t learn about black history in school. I think that’s awful what our president wants to do … Our people, our children need to be able to go to a place and learn about our history.” — Sandra White Shelley
In Charleston, South Carolina, a city steeped in the history of slavery, the legacy of the past remains palpable. Tours of historical sites reveal the brutal realities of slavery, with guides emphasizing the factual basis of their narratives amid growing skepticism.
This era in American history is still unfolding, marked by monumental shifts in societal norms and international relations. Under Trump’s leadership, the country is navigating a complex landscape that will likely influence its trajectory for years to come.
Returning Home with New Perspectives
As we conclude our American adventure, we leave behind the vibrant, unpredictable life of New York. While I’ll miss the city’s unique character and community, I look forward to reuniting with family in Newcastle and embracing the familiar comforts of home.
Despite the challenges, our time in the U.S. offered invaluable insights into a nation that often sets the global tone. As we transition back, I’ll continue to watch America’s unfolding story from afar, reflecting on the experiences that have shaped our journey.
