Self-deportation as a style statement

Columbia urban planning student Ranjani Srinivasan shows how it’s done – ‘it’ being reacting to her student visa being revoked by the US government. Instead of waiting for a (military?) Trumplane, she checked herself out of Fort MAGA. As far as style statements go, self-deportation is the ultimate DIY immigration policy. But the concept, as a gesture, may not be as clear to everyone, with some seeing it as an exit where the US government doesn’t even have to spend air fuel to send someone packing. But what about the act itself? There’s the logistics. Do you pack light? Or do you bring everything, including that pressure cooker that you lugged from India? Is there a farewell party involved? Or just an awkward wave before the security check? And what about the soundtrack? Surely, there’s a playlist for this – maybe a mix of ‘Hit the Road Jack’ and ‘Don’t Stop Believin”.

It is a paradoxical idea, though – like being told to fire yourself from a job you didn’t apply for. But let’s not overlook the comedic potential. Picture a reality show where contestants navigate bureaucratic mazes, dodge awkward goodbyes and compete for the grand prize – a one-way ticket to anywhere but here. In the end, self-deportation is less a policy and more a punchline. It’s a reminder that, sometimes, the best way to address inhospitality is to buy a ticket to ride.