Residents of central Newfoundland, renowned for their selfless hospitality on September 11, 2001, feel hurt and betrayed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent accusations against Canada. On that tragic day, Newfoundlanders opened their homes to thousands of stranded airline passengers, an act immortalized in the hit Broadway musical Come From Away.
Jillian Keiley, director of the Newfoundland production of Come From Away, expressed deep disappointment over Trump’s remarks suggesting Canada has been abusive toward the U.S. Keiley, who has spent years reflecting on the bond formed between Americans and Newfoundlanders during the crisis, called Trump’s comments “cruel.”
Trump’s rhetoric, which includes threats of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods and suggestions of annexing Canada as the 51st state, has sparked strong patriotic reactions across the country, including anti-American sentiment at sports events. Keiley lamented the backlash, emphasizing that the kindness shared between Newfoundlanders and Americans was mutual, with many forming lifelong friendships.
Among those touched by Newfoundland’s generosity is Kevin Tuerff, whose experience as a stranded passenger inspired his Pay It Forward 9/11 foundation. He criticized Trump’s trade tactics, arguing that they violate the “golden rule” of treating others as one wishes to be treated.
Derm Flynn, former mayor of Appleton, N.L., who personally hosted stranded travelers, echoed feelings of betrayal but stressed that his grievances lie with the Trump administration, not the American people. Claude Elliott, former mayor of Gander, shared similar sentiments, asserting that if 7,000 Americans arrived in Gander today, they would receive the same hospitality as they did on 9/11.
As Keiley prepares for another run of Come From Away in Gander, she remains steadfast in the production’s message of unity and kindness. She wishes Trump could witness a pivotal scene in the play—Newfoundlanders preparing meals for departing passengers—highlighting that their compassion extended beyond their stay.
“It’s not even that we take care of you when you’re here,” she said. “We’ll take care of you until you get home. That is living with love.”
Source: Swifteradio.com
