Charter

A swap, not a lecture

Western civilization is not an inheritance you get to insult while keeping the thermostat. If you prefer the planned life, there are countries that already run it. If you prefer liberty, there are people who will take your place and say thank you.

Who may apply

Citizens of the United States who would like to live under a party, a ration book, or a loudspeaker. Citizens of Cuba, North Korea, and a Britain that forgot how to speak, who would like a deed, a ballot, and a grocery aisle. City councils and foreign ministries may nominate in bulk.

What is exchanged

A seat, not a souvenir. The American surrenders the Bill of Rights for the destination’s actual rules. The freedom-seeker receives those rights without a seminar on why they are problematic. The flag stays. The ungrateful may go wave a different one.

What is not negotiated

Speech is not a violence. Hunger is.
Property is not theft. Theft is.
A family is not a department of the state.
Borders exist so a country can remain a country.
Faith is not a permit the ministry issues.

Destination briefs

China

For Americans who believe experts should manage speech, markets, and the truth. The Party already agrees. You will not need to own land. You will not be permitted to.

You surrender

— The First Amendment, and the habit of using it
— A church that does not report to the state
— Property you can pass to your children
— The right to leave when you change your mind

Cuba

For Americans who want socialism with a beach and a soundtrack. You will have a doctor. The doctor will not have medicine. You will have time to wait in line.

You surrender

— A supermarket that restocks on purpose
— The right to start a shop without a cousin in the ministry
— Unmonitored mail, calls, and sermons
— An exit that does not require a raft or a miracle

North Korea

For Americans who want the state to own everything, including the calendar, the haircut, and the applause. There is no misinformation here. There is only the broadcast.

You surrender

— The internet, then the idea of the internet
— A private thought you can say out loud
— Travel measured in miles instead of permissions
— The option to recant