General Discussion

Most folks understand that "one day spending boycotts" lack the sustained impact needed to bring about significant change.

The recent decline in US tourism, primarily influenced by policy and global relations, underscores the challenge of relying solely on sporadic actions that don't create lasting effects. Regarding your observation that our "international friends seem to be able to get it together for something far more ambitious" --- are you suggesting that there's a coordinated "boycott the USA" campaign at play?

Or could it be, instead, that this decline more a culmination of individual decisions based on personal concerns and circumstances? The organic nature of this trend seems to indicate a decentralized response rather than a centrally organized movement. It seems more likely to me that individuals (acting independently and on their own accord, in their own best interests and safety) have arrived at the same conclusion to not visit the USA without being a part of some organized movement. Understanding the root causes of shifts in consumer behavior, like the decline in US tourism, requires a nuanced examination beyond isolated boycott actions.

Specifically, increased border security measures and heightened immigration enforcement actions have created anxieties among travelers. The strength of the dollar also makes US vacations more expensive. Political friction, high travel costs, visa issues, and shifting travel preferences also contribute to the downturn. The drop in foreign visitors can also be attributed to individual resentment when Trump's tariffs have targeted their home country, and this is a logical factor in deterring visitors.

While one-day boycotts may serve as expressions of discontent (from those who participate on that particular day) their effectiveness in driving substantial change remains questionable, especially when businesses can weather such disruptions with minimal impact. (This is particularly true when the money NOT spent on boycott-day is spent anyway the following day. Or when one's normal shopping day does not coincide with boycott-day.)

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PS: "TLDR" yes I know. Sorry. But here it is anyway for anyone who's interested.