Story perspectives

American Tourists Embrace 'Flag Jacking' to Avoid Skepticism

10/29/2025

38 6

Summary

Story summary

A rising trend among American tourists involves attaching Canadian flags to belongings to mitigate perceptions abroad, a practice called 'flag jacking'.
The practice dates to the Vietnam War era and has resurfaced amid tensions.
Susanna Shankar, a dual US-Canadian citizen, says travelers face skepticism about Canadian identity.
Cultural commentator Stewart Reynolds argues Canadians’ behavior reflects collectivism shaped by harsh winters, unlike American individualism.

1 of 1

Story summary

A rising trend among American tourists involves attaching Canadian flags to belongings to mitigate perceptions abroad, a practice called 'flag jacking'.
The practice dates to the Vietnam War era and has resurfaced amid tensions.
Susanna Shankar, a dual US-Canadian citizen, says travelers face skepticism about Canadian identity.
Cultural commentator Stewart Reynolds argues Canadians’ behavior reflects collectivism shaped by harsh winters, unlike American individualism.