J1 students ‘not that focused’ on activism as union warns over US protest risks

Irish students travelling to the United States while on a J1 visa have been urged to consider the local “situation” and the “laws” regarding protests, however the Taoiseach said most J1 students are “not that focused” on activism.

It comes after the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) warned students to be “cautious” about the potential risks of becoming involved in activism while in the US over the summer.

Thousands of students will travel to the US on the special student visa which allows them to work and travel across the US for up to four months.

In a statement, the students’ union said: “We urge students to be cautious and informed about the potential risks involved in activism while on a J1 visa.

“While activism is a vital part of student life and a right that should be protected, it is important that students fully understand the possible consequences for their visa status, including the risk of deportation, and take steps to safeguard their participation in such activities.”

Since Donald Trump became US President, the US administration has revoked hundreds of student visas, with some relating to activism and participation in protests, particularly those in connection to the Middle East.

Many of these students have had their immigration status changed by the Trump administration, including students who are in the US on a J1 visa.

The focus on international students is seen as part of Mr Trump’s aim to reduce immigration.

Micheal Martin said that students and Irish people in general must be aware of what is going on in a country they are travelling to.

“I think we need to keep everything in perspective.

“Most people who go on their J1 are not that focused on activism, to be fair,” he said on Tuesday.

“I mean, most are out there to work, to get experience, to enjoy the United States, and that’s perspective we need to keep on this.

“Obviously, in any country, you’re going to need to understand what’s going on within the country at any given time and adapt accordingly.”

Tanaiste Simon Harris said that the Department of Foreign Affairs has not changed its travel advice in relation to the US, but said the department is keeping things “under constant review”.

He said that parents and young people across Ireland have been asking questions in relation to travel advice.

“They see scenes in America in terms of protest, in terms of Palestinian protest, and I suppose that does make people think again in relation to this.

“My advice to people would be that Ireland and the United States have a long and enduring relationship. Many, many people from the US come to Ireland, and they’re very welcome.

“Many Irish people travel to the US on holidays and student exchanges. I know they’re very welcome too.

“Of course, it’s important when you go to any jurisdiction, to consider the local situation, the local laws, to consider if what’s acceptable in Ireland is acceptable in the country that you’re visiting.

“Of course, to also know specifically in relation to the United States that Ireland has a very large diplomatic footprint there, and we’re second only to France in terms of the number of consulates that any European country has in the United States, and to make yourself aware of the presence of our consulate service in advance of travelling to the US.

“But look, J1s are a great time for people.

“They’re a great time for young people.

“I hope our many young people who travel on J1s this year have a really good summer, a safe summer, and familiarise themselves with the local situation.

“Protest indeed, has always been an important part of US society as well.”

The USI added: “We call on both the US and Irish authorities to provide clarity on these issues, ensuring that students are fully aware of their rights and responsibilities while participating in the J1 programme.

“USI/AMLE is committed to supporting students in navigating these challenges, and we will continue to advocate for their safety, rights, and freedom of expression.”

Labour senator Laura Harmon, the party’s spokesperson for higher education, said that families and students are concerned.

Ms Harmon, who is a former president of the students union, said that a lot can change in the US from week to week.

“I think that the Union of Students in Ireland is absolutely correct in issuing the statement this morning and saying that people should be wary,” she said on Tuesday.

“It is a very different political situation now in the US. I think Donald Trump as we know is very unpredictable.

“A lot can change from one week to the next in terms of what statements are issued. And certainly any student should be wary in terms of activity in the US or while they’re there, or protests that they may take part in, in terms of their own rights.”