A Reddit post on r/electricdaisycarnival has brought to light troubling experiences of racial profiling at U.S. immigration ahead of EDC 2025. A mixed South African attendee detailed how U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at New York airport subjected him to three hours of invasive searches and intense questioning, despite having his paperwork in order and traveling with his American girlfriend. The prolonged scrutiny appeared to be motivated by his race and nationality.
He urged international festivalgoers to prepare for potential profiling by carrying extra documents, warning that such treatment can be a harsh unexpected hurdle when entering the U.S. The post quickly drew widespread empathy and condemnation in the community, with many expressing frustration and shame about institutional racism and fears it could deter global fans from attending U.S. festivals.
Several users advocated for more visibility on these issues, proposing pinned safety advisories on festival-specific forums to better equip visitors. Others stressed that while this conduct is unacceptable, many Americans oppose such discriminatory practices and extended solidarity to those affected.
This discussion highlights the systemic racial profiling issues documented by groups like the United Nations Human Rights Committee and the American Civil Liberties Union, underscoring long-standing concerns over U.S. immigration enforcement practices.
As EDC continues to attract a global audience, the rave community’s push for greater awareness and inclusivity around border experiences remains vital — reflecting broader calls to dismantle barriers for minority and international attendees and preserve the festival’s welcoming spirit.
Source: r/electricdaisycarnival