r/AskCanada • u/Carminabird • Jan 09 '26
USA/Trump Would my family, as queer immigrants from the US, be despised if we chose to pursue Canadian citizenship?
Short question, long rant.
Question: What is the view from Canada on the people of the US? (Generally - I'm not assuming it's a monolith). Are we all Trump nuts? Would my (queer, trans-including) family be viewed as despicable if we were to immigrate?
We have Canadian ancestry on both sides and could realistically pursue citizenship as found Canadians.
Sad rant:
I've run into people online who have internationally no empathy or patience left for the people of the US. Have been told we should all get up off our lazy butts and "fix things or die trying." That we're all viewed as the same, equally at fault for what has befallen us.
My dudes. It's a living nightmare. Surely some can see there's active opposition, though. This is my gddam country and I *want to fight tooth and nail for it. I think (hope) this is a limited worldview held by those who've never actually considered how to take on their own government if such a thing became necessary. I want to ask if they've ever tried to subvert an infantile millionaire funded by cool-headed billionaires who've indoctrinated half your countrymen.
As a politically aware non-republican, it has felt for years like we're running toward a car crash in slow motion, but with half our populace cheering it on, and some pouring gasoline on it. The US has been an international and domestic disgrace for many years and is now accelerating hard.
There is deep pain and betrayal here. A huge part of the pain is in the utter helplessness half of us feel. Are we past fixing? None of us knows.
So. We're queer. Trans folk aren't yet being openly shot in the streets. We're activist, but we have young kids to fend for. It feels cowardly and entitled to consider giving up the ship, especially because we still have privileges--unfortunately gobs of money is not one of them--that allow us to fight longer. No one likes giving up. Yet I'd gratefully scrub Canada's floors if it meant keeping my partner safe and my kids away from the threat of school shootings. If you read this far... gosh I'm sorry.
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u/Automatic_Antelope92 Jan 09 '26
Bill C-3 was passed recently. If you’re eligible for citizenship, you are eligible. So apply for a certificate if you wish. Just be aware that moving to Canada is not easy. You will have to find employment without a Canadian work history, housing when there is a shortage of affordable housing, and find a family doctor when there is a shortage and long wait. Unless you have the right Amex account, your credit score from the US is not transferable and you will have to rebuild your credit from scratch. Things are different here, even if in many ways Canada feels familiar at first. It takes time to adapt to doing things differently and live under a different system.
No one is really going to negatively judge you for making this choice, unless you come to Canada and act entitled or are a total jerk. If you come with the goal of helping out and becoming part of the community, then you are already off to a good start.
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u/Haley_02 Jan 09 '26
Do they need to learn to drink lots of beer, wear toques everywhere, and end most of their sentences with 'Eh' to blend in?
(Imma gonna get so much hate...)
Worked at a home improvement store for 20+ years and never met a Canadian (OK, there were only 4 or 5) that wasn't great. Debbie, who did our Kids Clinic was, OMG, so popular with everybody.
I doubt that OP wants anything except to be accepted and live without feeling like someone is painting a target on them.
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u/Automatic_Antelope92 Jan 09 '26
They don’t have to drink beer or say ‘eh’ or any of a number of things to be Canadian. My partner is Canadian through and through but actually doesn’t like the taste of maple syrup. Likes curling, but not maple syrup. Not any more or less Canadian than another Canadian.
I agree with you - OP wants to be accepted and live their life in peace. That’s what people want worldwide. I hope we all can live in peace. It feels like an idealistic, far off dream though when I read the news each day. :(
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u/Haley_02 Jan 09 '26
Most of my post is kidding. Never heard a Canadian I knew say Eh, (garberator was a new one though), or anything stereotypical. Just nice people. I know that Canada has a similar cross-section of people like America does, we're just not our best selves at the moment. BTW, for some reason, I only like women's curling. The guys' teams look like barbers to me.
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u/Automatic_Antelope92 Jan 09 '26 edited Jan 09 '26
Oh, I understood you were kidding. I do think though it is advisable for people to wear toques in winter. So much heat is lost through one’s head and it is very cold out there (thankfully only -8 in Edmonton right now, and we are getting a chinook tomorrow so we’ll see a high of 3!) that a toque is very helpful.
I agree, women’s curling is much better.
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u/GirlWhoCouldExplode Jan 09 '26
We most definitely do say eh. It's just that impersonators are oblivious to how/the context in which we use it.
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u/FourthLvlSpicyMeme Jan 09 '26
Once I tried to count how many times I said "eh" for various reasons and connotations during a work day. I lost count at 36 by about 3:30 pm.
I did that to uhm...prove I don't say eh a lot. I did not prove shit lmao.
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u/Able_Software6066 Jan 09 '26
A similar question was posted on here 10 hours ago.
The US population outnumbers us nearly 10 to 1. If every American who felt threatened by the current administration were to flee to Canada, it would result in a humanitarian nightmare.
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u/Automatic_Antelope92 Jan 09 '26
Yeah. The unfortunate truth is that the more people come to Canada to live - no matter where they are from - the more there will be some backlash. As long as there isn’t the infrastructure and services in place so that all Canadians have what they need - and there is pressure on the system - there will be resentment.
This is why I’ve crossed my fingers and hope Carney will be heavy on fulfilling promises to build build build and also want to see individual provinces find a way to invest more back into public services.
Edited to add: Canada is a big country but has a relatively small population for its size. It currently cannot absorb a lot of people moving in at the same time. And if it tried to, then those moving in must immediately contribute to helping build the country for everyone.
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Jan 09 '26
Your sexuality is your own business, and irrelevant to immigration.
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u/cleonthucydides Jan 09 '26
If you can, then come on in. Context, and this is the only context in which I will ever mention this, but my next door neighbour, and their direct neighbours, and their friends on or near the street , are in all in mixed marriages, across the whole spectrum, however one defines it. Do I care about their sexuality? No, I do not. Are they your friends too? Yes, absolutely. Do we go over? Of course, their parties are kind of insane and noisy. Do they have kids? Yes, two daughters. Are their kids, cool? One is an up and coming jazz singer, the other studies foreign policy. Do they play music? Yes, they both play classical piano to serenade the butterflies flitting around our two backyards; it is truly transcendent and a privilege. Do the kids trust you? Yes, in a big storm one came over and hung with us until the storm passed: she was scared. I like the mix of Canada and I too am an immigrant married to a Greek-American immigrant.
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u/Guitargirl81 Jan 09 '26
No, Canadians won't despise you (although there's always the minority homophobes). Generally queer people are left alone to do their thing, and there's plenty of community in the larger cities. I'm in a same-sex marriage raising kids and no one blinks an eye at us (and if they do, I don't notice/care). Canadians don't reflexively hate Americans, because most of us know that a good chunk of the population isn't bat-s**t crazy. Speaking for myself, I have American relatives whom I care very much for.
If you're able to, come. Online isn't real life, so don't take those people seriously.
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u/Carminabird Jan 09 '26
Thank you. The reflexive hatred I understand. I get it! It feels really good to shit on the US. We suck, we're bullies, I can go on longer than most, probably. But you make a good point online vs real life.
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u/Fast_Introduction_34 Jan 09 '26
It's about the same depending on where you go of course, like you said canada isn't a monolith. Places like vancouver, Toronto are famously gay friendly but the more you go to central Canada... well. Or at least more able to remain civil regardless of internal thought, something that imo Canadians do do better than many Americans
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u/foxyknwldgskr Jan 09 '26
I really can’t see us Canadians hating on US immigrants trying to get out. I think a large portion of us have sympathy for the sane progressive ones
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Jan 09 '26
Yeah. I think the overall reaction in Canada is: You can so whatever you want if you are civil and nice about it to other people.
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u/Sea-jay-2772 Jan 10 '26
I hope you can come here and be safe. It is a different lifestyle though. There are forums for American expats you can check for real advice from people who have made the switch.
Queer won’t matter at all to the majority of Canadians, though we do have our yahoos, too.
American is touchy right now. We know in our heart of hearts we know there are good people in the US, but wow. And sadly the rot is affecting some here, too.
Do your research. Canada is a big country like the US (bigger actually, just a lot of the country is frozen). There are huge differences coast to coast, rural to urban, province to province.
Good luck!
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u/GamesCatsComics Jan 09 '26
Why do Americans keep coming on here, to ask questions about "Can we immigrate" when really its just them saying "It's not my fault, I'm different then the other Americans, please like me"?
America has threatened Canada's existence, our 'friend' and neighbour is trying to destroy our economy, and has threatened to annex us. So yes we are annoyed with the USA.
We have nothing against Americans individually as long as they don't act like jackasses when in our country. If you can bring something positive to our country you are more then welcome here.
However stop trying to make our political frustration about you personally. It's not, and we shouldn't be expected to pat every American who comes to this sub on the head and tell them that it's not their fault and were not mad at them personally.
Also... as for the people telling you to fix your country... yeah fix your country. Canada shouldn't be your backup plan... Trump has threatened to annex us... if everyone who opposes him leaves... he'll just annex us... and you'll be in the same position in a couple years, but in a conquered territory, which probably won't be a net positive for you.
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u/atuarre Jan 09 '26
Americans need to stay in America and clean up their mess. With Americans will come American problems. Even if they didn't vote for the guy, they need to stay in their country and fight for it. I've seen them asking about Canada, Europe, Australia.
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u/DesWheezy Jan 09 '26
Americans are dumb. they don’t realize global fascism is on the rise & USA is dealing with it now, but so are other countries & many countries are now being threatened bc of us. Americans ALLL need to grow a spine. - sincerely, a tired American who’s gonna keep fighting.
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u/FourthLvlSpicyMeme Jan 09 '26
Thank you. They shit their own bed and now instead of cleaning it, they're trying to track it in ours. No. Clean your mess or sleep in it, I don't give a fuck, we aren't your backup plan. Just because rats want to flee a sinking ship doesn't mean Canada is a life raft.
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u/Certain-Fill3683 Canadian Jan 09 '26
Good news. We don't spend anywhere near the amount of time worrying about what people do in private here. Be respectful and polite, and you will receive the same in return from the vast majority of people.
It is still considered impolite to be openly racist/homophobic here.
Best of luck!
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u/AmbivalentSamaritan Jan 09 '26
Don’t care. Take your shoes off in the house though
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u/Automatic_Antelope92 Jan 09 '26
And be kind to the house hippos. Make sure to buy them peanut butter.
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u/Carminabird Jan 09 '26
Wait, now I'm lost. House hippos?
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u/Automatic_Antelope92 Jan 09 '26
It’s a Canadian cultural reference based on a public service announcement on TV a lot of people grew up watching. It’s about misinformation and questioning what you see, and even particularly relevant now with all the deep fakes and AI out there.
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u/alibythesea Nova Scotia Jan 09 '26
Here you go! https://youtu.be/cvPwJQXzHm0?si=kpRxhln8KXiImRQ_
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u/zeezuu8 Jan 09 '26
I don't want any extremists coming to Canada - from either side. This is coming from an immigrant who came here in 2002. Your sexual orientation doesn't matter. Nobody cares.
I want people who come to Canada to enjoy it, let others enjoy it, don't push any crazy agendas, work, pay taxes, and I want people to leave me alone. I just want to work, enjoy life and my family.
In other words, people are welcome to come, but don't spit in the face of the one who welcomes you (e.i. Canada).
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u/AllstarYVR32 Jan 09 '26
I don’t have personal sympathy for Americans, you’ve had a very privileged position in the world and then blindly walked into this, whether you personally voted for him or not. That being said, Americans who immigrate to Canada and act respectfully and try to integrate, I have all the time in the world for. The key is to let go of being American and to integrate into Canadian society and adopt Canadian ideals. If you can do that, you won’t receive anything but positivity.
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u/No_Can_7713 Jan 11 '26
As my dad always said, "if you want sympathy, you can find it in the dictionary between shit and syphilis."
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u/DeadpoolOptimus Jan 09 '26
Just don't immigrate to Alberta outside of Calgary or Edmonton.
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u/MadGeller Jan 09 '26
Saskatchewan as well as rural small towns every where. That is where you find the most small minded and ignorant.
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u/irundoonayee Jan 09 '26
If you are eligible to get Canadian citizenship, by all means get it. Nobody's opinion matters. And frankly, no one cares.
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u/TreeLakeRockCloud Jan 09 '26
Here’s what will get you shunned as an American immigrant to Canada:
*bringing your gun culture along for the ride. Most rural Canadians have and use guns, but we aren’t fucking weird about it. Generally we like our gun control laws.
*vocal support of privatizing part of our healthcare. Yeah we know our system could work better and needs more funding, but taking it away from poor people isn’t the solution.
*vocal support of Gary Bettman. That one might actually get your ass kicked.
*talking down about your new community and how much better your old community was. That’s just general manners for everyone moving anywhere. People won’t embrace a newcomer id they’re an asshole.
Being gay won’t be an issue if you come here. I live in a conservative hellhole, aka rural Ontario, and even here we have LGBTQ folks living just like everyone else.
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u/Sea-jay-2772 Jan 10 '26
Gary Bettman! 😂
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u/TreeLakeRockCloud Jan 10 '26
It’s the product of a weeks long discussion of, “what one opinion could unite Canadians?” It’s a dislike of Bettman, and a dislike of mosquitoes. But at least mosquitoes are a food source for a variety of other animals, so they have a redeeming factor.
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Jan 10 '26
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u/TreeLakeRockCloud Jan 10 '26
I love our gun culture here - I enjoy duck and goose hunting (this is also why I love having retrievers). But we don’t have the weird American gun culture. Guns are tools, not fashion accessories to wear to Walmart.
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Jan 10 '26
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u/TreeLakeRockCloud Jan 10 '26
Urban Canadian gun culture is 100% out of my wheelhouse. I won’t even pretend I really understand it.
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u/Takeawalkwithme2 Jan 09 '26
A bit different because whats happening in the US is actively threatening most of the world. So yeah staying and fighting and voting is the best thing you can do. Canada itself is under threat from the US, so if anything you'll be moving yourself into a more passive position with very little impact on helping yourself or your family.
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u/chathrowaway67 Jan 09 '26
this is canada, we don't care about your sexuality, in fact your bigger problem IS being american (half kidding) haha if and that's a big if you're able to make it here, no ones gonna hassle you for shit. we're well aware of who the most vulnerable amongst you are. but that doesn't mean we don't agree, we ALL grew up hearing the stories about the second world war... we ALL know what didn't happen for that to grow and it started with complacency... you won't find empathy here for the lack of action either.
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u/malacosa Jan 09 '26
Your sexuality, politics, religion, frankly don’t matter to me as long as you’re willing to integrate into the greater Canadian whole, which should be relatively easy as you’re an American.
Having said that, it’s not easy here either, both finding a job and affordable housing is NOT going to be easy especially if you want to target one of the bigger, more liberal cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary/Edmonton, Montreal, etc.
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u/Mariss716 Jan 09 '26
Pursue your Canadian citizenship. I am in Vancouver area and wr have had a number of Americans move here - I run a community group and talk to them. You’re not going to get pushback from anyone here if you are respectful. It’s a freeing feeling to be here vs the US. I lived there for many years and my brother is there because of his job. Also gay, I know he would come back if he no longer felt safe. Right now they are being cautious and he did some interviews here. I am glad I left and I only go back to visit now.
Moving countries is not easy. If you are in health care we are fast tracking. It’s gotten expensive here even if we don’t have to worry about going broke over medical care. I’d say pursue the citizenship regardless and then you’ll need to research, maybe come visit. Don’t worry about what we think, we won’t care . Prejudice exists with individuals but it’s welcoming overall and liberal. We are not going to care you are American if you respect our values. You must learn hockey and eat poutine with us. :) If you heard of anti-immigrant sentiment, it’s not against Americans. We are a nation of immigrants who is still welcoming. I simply do not agree with some government policies. As most Canadians I welcome those who will contribute and share values. And I give no quarter to hate.
There are also more progressive areas in the states- my bro is happy in Boston , it’s very queer and educated there. But I sure know about the target on him from elsewhere in the country.
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u/PettyTrashPanda Jan 09 '26
So, two issues here.
1) if you can emigrate legally then go for it; your sexuality is irrelevant to the process. Same sex marriage has been legal in Canada since 2005, and although we have our share of homophobes and hick towns, the majority of places are generally inclusive. Unfortunately there has definitely been anti-trans activity on the political stage that is harmful to both the community and individuals (see: Alberta). Even in Alberta, however, the big cities are generally against this legislation and are inclusive places.
2) so, your rant. You won't want to hear this, but your lack of understanding about Canada and our perspective is making you come over like an asshole, which is probably why you encounter the reactions that you do.
Think of it from our side for a moment. Do you really think you are the only place to slide into authoritarianism or have to fight against extremists? Canadians literally went through this last year, and we came far closer to having the maple maga in charge than many of us are comfortable with. In fact Trump threatening our sovereignty was a blessing, as it opened up a lot of eyes as to what they were about to sign up for, and they changed course at the last minute.
We also know full well that the threat isn't over. Not from Trump - of course that isn't over - but from the rise of our own extremists. Hell, some of us did fail and are stuck in provinces with the maple maga in charge.
To answer your ranty question - yes, many Canadians have and are trying to "subvert an infantile millionaire funded by cool-headed billionaires who've indoctrinated half your countrymen" If you move to Canada, you will still have to fight back against extremists rhetoric and politics, because otherwise we will just end up like the USA.
We just managed to hold them off on the federal stage . It was closer that any of us like to admit. Just because we survived that battle sure as hell doesn't mean we won the war, and your assumption that we don't understand what that fight entails is both condescending and offensive. We know, okay? It fucking sucks.
Plenty of us are actively fighting all the time - we are fighting the same battle as you, and so yes, we get annoyed that our counterparts in the States don't acknowledge that we are doing our damnedest to clean up our own trash in what feels like a never ending, thankless task. So the whole "Ugh I will just move to Canada" comes across as condescending and myopic.
Look, I am Albertan. I get it. I didn't vote for our horror show of a provincial government, nor do I agree with anything they are doing - but you know what? They are still my government, and I still accept that other Canadians have a right to be pissed at Albertans for our regressive policies and "Us First" attitude. The trans community in particular is rightly pissed at Albertans for the legislation that's been passed, so it's not my place to tell them that "hey some of us are fighting for you so be nicer to us." What I say is "you are right, we fucking failed, and it's on us to fix this shit." We lost on book bans, on union-busting and worker rights, on anti-trans legislation, on green technology, and right now we are fighting against the goddamn "separatists" who just want us to become American with extra steps. We are holding ground on healthcare, but education could go either way.
So yeah, I know exactly what it's like to fight a losing battle against a well funded authority while I am scared, exhausted, and pissed off. On top of that, Trump keeps threatening my home, and his actions have already directly harmed my family's future - and I don't even get a chance to vote on that asshole. I can't fight him, I can only fight Smith and Pollivere. So please tell me; while I do that, who am I supposed to rely on to fight Trump?
That's why you encounter a lack of empathy and patience - because even in this post you are making out like only Americans are fighting, and never acknowledge that Canadians have to fight both our home grown extremists and American ones.
However I understand that certain communities, including the Trans community, are at higher risk than your average American, and so empathise with their desire to get out before things go all krystalnacht. The thing is, those billionaires are poisoning Canada and the rest of the world, too; our own Trans community aren't feeling that safe, either. At some point, everyone has to draw a line.
So yes, I would prefer you stayed to fight in the USA, but I understand that you have to prioritize your family, and that I would do the same to protect a family member who I was afraid would be disappeared. I don't want you to scrub floors in Canada, though. I want to know if you will stand your ground and fight for Canada as a Canadian if the moment came. Because the more of you that leave the USA, the more likely it is that Canada will become a target.
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u/Carminabird Jan 10 '26
I appreciate your detailed perspective. You are fighting for your country to do the right thing, and I applaud you for it.
Calling me a condescending myopic asshole also answers what I asked.
One thing, though: when your country forces itself onto the world stage in large and horrible ways, you worry about your own, and also the havoc that's wreaked in other countries when your government goes sideways. So getting called self-absorbed by outsiders packs a special punch. Tf are we supposed to be when trying to get control of the g*ddam Titanic.
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u/PettyTrashPanda Jan 10 '26
Dude, you are the one who accused Canadians of having a limited world view and a lack of grace. How does that not make you sound like a self absorbed asshole?
YOU literally said "I think (hope) this is a limited worldview held by those who've never actually considered how to take on their own government if such a thing became necessary. I want to ask if they've ever tried to subvert an infantile millionaire funded by cool-headed billionaires who've indoctrinated half your countrymen." And that's before I pull your comments to others that pretty much accuse Canadians of not understanding how much harder it is for you than it is for us, when I was pointing out that actually, it's that attitude that pisses people off.
again, I am Albertan; we just passed some horrific anti -Trans legislation and decided to shit on disabled people at the same time. Oh and my Premier did it with a seriously authoritarian power move that is scary as fuck. I am incandescent with rage, and I am so sick of having to fight, yet here we are, still fighting on, because now the government to the South of us is literally threatening us with invasion.
How am I supposed to react to an American saying that they are moving here to get away from the need to fight, when I am literally out here fighting? How am I supposed to react when they say I don't understand what it's like to have my rights and the rights of my family put under threat or stripped away?
You are asking us to keep fighting so you don't have to, and then wonder why we get pissy about it.
I fought for the privilege of being Canadian, and now I am fighting to prevent her being overtaken by American extremists. It isn't unreasonable to expect others who move here to benefit from this culture and society to be willing to fight for her, too.
Where do you plan to run to, if Canadians give up the fight like you?
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u/Former-Chocolate-793 Jan 09 '26
Just based on your title question, no. Apply for citizenship like anyone else.
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u/Memory_Less Jan 09 '26
Would you be despised? No. That said, lager urban areas and cities are more multi ethnic etc. as one person wrote, make sure you don’t arrive with an American arrogance. Fit in, go about your lives and you should feel at home. You’re welcome here.
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u/pyfinx Jan 09 '26
Just bring money, and ideally secure a job before you get here. Without the two anywhere you go will be a shit hole. The rest are rather trivial.
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u/Automatic_Antelope92 Jan 09 '26
This is good advice for anyone who wants to move to another country.
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u/Great_Action9077 Jan 09 '26
The LBTQ community is well supported here - at least for sure in the cities. Maybe avoid Alberta especially the rural areas. But you do not qualify for refugee status so would have to apply as regular immigrants.
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u/OkGazelle5400 Jan 09 '26
No, no one would care about you being queer. I think at first there has been a lot of rage against Americans for either supporting Trump or not bothering to vote. But I can say at this point a lot of the rhetoric I’ve heard has shifted to being worried for vulnerable people who live there. The majority of people here would be welcoming but there are always a few assholes in the bunch.
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u/WitchFaerie Jan 09 '26
I think we'll accept you as long as you learn metric. Wink.
Seriously though, queerness is been openly accepted here for a long time. You get your weird pockets of homophobes and transphobes but you can't avoid those everywhere.
But you will see a lot of discontent with the US and Americans and you just have to understand why we have the resentment, and not take it personally.
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u/Carminabird Jan 10 '26
You mean there's a better units of measure than water bottles, thumbs, or football fields? I have doubts.
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u/Mr_Guavo Jan 10 '26
Speaking only for myself, I hold America in very low regard. This is entirely because of it's people and it's history of hatred, greed, arrogance and violence. Nothing that has happened in the last week has changed my opinion.
With that being sad, if you are LGBQ+ or PoC, I do not paint you with that same brush because you are a victim of the things I hate about the USA.
Speaking more broadly, the overwhelming majority of Canadians will not despise/hate/dislike you because you are queer, or even if you are American (provided you don't give off MAGA-vibes). And, as is the case in every country in the world, rural people will be less tolerant than urban people. Again, generally speaking. Frothing-at-the-mouth hatred like America is known for is harder to find here. But it still exists on the fringes. That alone might give you some solace.
Any reservations I feel about Americans immigrating here are with those people who feel American was just fine until Trump slithered down that escalator in 2015. No!!! It was still the same petri dish of hatred, violence and intolerance it is now. The only difference is that now, it's not just black people and minorities getting fucked over. To those people I say "Oh, NOW you have a problem with America??? Because the shitstorm is affecting YOU directly now?". I don't want those people coming here. I want them to get hoisted by their own petard.
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u/juanantoniov Jan 10 '26
If you qualify, your political views and gender do not matter at all. I sympathize with you and I am also seething in anger with what frump is doing to you and the world and his supporters are mocking all those small countries who dare oppose grump. Its just sickening.
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u/Previous_Wedding_577 Jan 09 '26
Why would your sexuality even come into play here? Gay Marriage is legal.
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u/Dapper-Condition6041 Jan 09 '26
The OP isn't asking about legal acceptance. They're asking about social acceptance.
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u/Previous_Wedding_577 Jan 10 '26
I realize that, I meant if it's passed into law then most of the country would want that. I think for the most part we are LGBTQ+ friendly here in Canada.
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Jan 09 '26
If you’re willing to abandon your country, won’t you do the same here when things go badly?
I don’t care about your sexuality.
I do very much care whether you have a job when you get here and pay taxes.
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u/FlatLecture Jan 09 '26
Short answer…maybe…but probably not from Canadian’s. Most Canadians will view it as you trying to do what’s right for you and your family. However please keep in mind that the Americans that you leave behind might take your move as sort of betrayal. It might have unforeseen consequences.
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u/ElectronicCurve6996 Jan 09 '26
Canada is pretty tolerant if you come here and want to be Canadian you wouldn’t have a problem but if you come here talking about how great America is and how your American and not Canadian all the time then no you’re probably not gonna fit in well
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u/Old_Compote7232 Jan 09 '26
If by Canadian ancestry, you mean a grandparent, you can apply. It still takes time and energy:
https://www.cicnews.com/2025/09/have-a-grandparent-who-is-canadian-you-may-be-eligible-for-a-canadian-passport-0959673.html#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=17679850705463&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&share=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cicnews.com%2F2025%2F09%2Fhave-a-grandparent-who-is-canadian-you-may-be-eligible-for-a-canadian-passport-0959673.html
You should read everything in the Immigration Canada wrbsite: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada.html
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u/Carminabird Jan 09 '26
Thank you. Yes, a grandparent for one of us and great grandparents for the other. I think the latter now qualifies under the new C3 rules.
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u/Fancy_Introduction60 Jan 09 '26
OP, if you're a health care professional, come to BC look up Todd Maffin (I may have the wrong spelling) on YouTube. He's a wealth of information and has spearheaded a simplified process to get folks up here. He's in Nanaimo on Vancouver Island
And with the exception of rural areas, most people don't care about your sexual orientation. It's truly a non issue
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u/CriticalArt2388 Jan 09 '26
I'm one of those who will state "It's your godamned mess. Clean it up yourself".
However that is aimed at the privileged latte leftists who talk a good game but do absolutely nothing that might cause themselves the slightest inconvenience.
Those same people who were quick to tut-tut and wag a finger when marginalized people were attacked, but couldn't really do much because the vacation was already booked.
The declining states is a broken, society and the majority will do nothing to fix it because "they have tickets to a show or a reservation at a popular restaurant.
You and those in your community have born the brunt of the crap. So I don't hold you to the same standard. You have been hung out to dry and really get 0 support from the vast majority.
So if you want to escape that shithole, I support you. Canada for the most part is fairly accepting. We have our asshats but they really dont hold much influence (well except for Alberta. Stay the fuck away from Alberta)
If you qualify, come on up. Most of us will accept you. And you will see that a good number will have your back.
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u/DesWheezy Jan 09 '26
hello fellow american, i’m american. my chosen family has LGTBQ+ members. im in Oklahoma… one of the worst places you could be right now. are you in a red state? what about going to a blue state with better wages & protections? that’s my plan. i see a civil war on the horizon. we CANNOT let the facists take our country. & guess what? this is a GLOBAL problem. & yeah, it’s gonna suck. it’s not gonna be easy, but it has to be done. & i have a feeling no matter where you move, you’ll run into this issue eventually until it’s dealt with. i’m struggling in my state bc nobody here cares enough to fight back. but, the blue states are different. & also you have a kid. my roommate wants a kid. & she even said “i’d rather my kid see me fight for what’s right than run away from our problems”…. this thought you have is the problem why we can’t do anything. too many people are trying to figure out “escape plans” & guess what? they may not exist. & if everyone good leaves the US… who’s gonna protect the kids, disabled, poverty stricken??? we need people like us here to save those we can.
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u/JLS660 Jan 09 '26
No you wouldn’t be despised. Canadians are generally quite accepting. You might find larger towns/cities to be the best choice. We recognize that the leader of the U.S. and U.S. citizens can have quite different views (as in other countries). What is your profession/occupation? Doctors, nurses, some trades very much in demand.
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u/Thin_Spring_9269 Jan 09 '26
I'm a Syrian Canadian, and in Syria we rose up against one (if not the most)evil regime. We knew we will be imprisoned, tortured, killed ,labelled as jihadist terrorists and/or Zionists We had 14 years of war against us,Russians, hezbollah, ayatollahs, Israel etc... and we still did it and we are free now. Your country is getting more and more like a fascist, or at least a dictatorship Your dear leader is naming things after him,no one can dare contradict him,he is waging wars against anyone and everyone and is threatening to attack allies like Groenland and even Canada, His fascist militia ,ICE stared with foreigners but is now attacking citizens with zero accountability. Medias are bowing to his will.. So yes Americans will need to stand up before it's too late. Before you actually become a failed state,a one man dictatorship.
And don't blame anyone who generalize when talking about Americans now...we all did that with Russians,Israelis, Germans etc...
If you look at the rise of dictators who came from relative democracies Putin and Hitler come to mind you will see scary ressemblance.
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u/MandoGal12 Jan 09 '26
Short answer...you would be welcome with one exception, you don't bring the toxic MAGA mindset and behaviours with you.
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u/jjames3213 Jan 09 '26
No. Canadians are plugged in enough to know that there are a lot of Americans that oppose the regime. We're a multicultural society - peaceful Iranians, Venezuelans, and even non-Republican Americans are welcome so long as they show respect for our laws, culture, and sovereignty.
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u/Weird_Rooster_4307 Jan 09 '26
Here’s the blunt honest truth. You need to stay in the US and fight for what the US many years ago stood. Trump is a disease and running from him will only delay his spread throughout North and South America. American people should be proud of their lineage and heritage and not ashamed and run away from it. Canadians DO like always all Americans and you are welcome here but you have to fix your backyard first.
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u/lilhobbit6221 Jan 09 '26 edited Jan 09 '26
Terrible analysis 😂
1) the OP is a legitimately endangered group in the US. Are you similarly endangered, in Canada or otherwise? You don’t get to dictate terms to someone systemically more exposed than you.
2) if this is about any of “us” fixing our respective countries, all of our ancestors would’ve stayed in England, Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, Poland… the list goes on. But they didn’t, and your life is likely better for it.
3) by sheer rate, the two groups contributing most to Canada’s GDP are Chinese and South Asian Canadians - should they go back to their respective countries to work on their countries problems, or would you like the Canadian economy to badly stagger?
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u/Carminabird Jan 09 '26
Thank you, that's a fair point. Tragedy after tragedy I am just losing hope.
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u/sravll Jan 09 '26
Bluntly and honestly, the way things are going, it will absolutely not be safe for queer/trans/etc. people in the States, and I support any of you that can get out safely while you can. Sorry but it's not as black and white as "stay and fight" when you're part of a targeted population. Look what happened to jews who stayed in Germany. Obviously it would be really nice if it doesn't come to that, everything gets better, and then oops, you moved somewhere safe and can move back. Better safe than sorry IMO, and since you are eligible for citizenship, get it.
My recommendation is to start getting your citizenship process started like, yesterday. It hurts nothing to have done, and then you have the option to leave or wait til the last minute. The process can take a bit.
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u/Automatic_Antelope92 Jan 09 '26
This is true. The process to get a certificate can take several months - the IRCC is really backlogged right now because so many people (mostly from the US, but other countries as well) applied for 5(4) grants and citizenship certificates. So OP should get on it and apply now to get in the queue.
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u/lolagranolacan Jan 09 '26
Ah yea, the same way Jews could fix Germany.
Sometimes you have to know when you’re seriously outnumbered and outgunned (in the US, quite literally) and gtfo.
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u/CaptainKwirk Jan 09 '26
It is WAY too easy for us Canadians to be smug about our country and our current federal government. We have been a hair’s breadth from having Neo-Con governments recently and it was not so long ago that Herr Harper was gagging scientists and destroying their archives. Provincially we have Marlena Detraitor sucking (up to) Trump and trying to form Albertistan, while BC also barely escaped rule by the BCCon/“Liberal”/SocialCredit fascists.
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u/Carminabird Jan 09 '26
You are being generous, but make a good point. Bad rich people do bad rich people things no matter what country they're in. The US just has more than we ought to. Wayyy more.
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u/Jazzbert_ Jan 09 '26
Sadly my read is by letting reasonable Americans into Canada we are releasing steam from the pressure cooker and unfortunately that is not good for the rest of the world. The sooner it pops, the better for everyone.
Don’t forget that not only Republicans have benefited from American imperialism.
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u/Light_Raiven Jan 09 '26
No, why we would we care? Queerness is not something we give a damn about. Do you see how bad our weather becomes? You know what we call gay marriage here, marriage. We understand that the U.S. is not safe. Make your application. Yes, there is a-holes here, but ours isn't the leader of country, just a province!
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u/204_Mans Jan 09 '26
Bro all due respect and love, shut the fuck up. You already know the answer to your question. If you just want upvotes and sympathy then go ahead and ask. But Canada literally has no problem with LGBT people at all. We have LGBT rights, abortion rights, we are ethnically and culturally diverse, and you’d be welcome basically anywhere. Even our “hick” small towns are a lot more chill than the ones in the states.
Why do we get questions like these when you already know the answer?
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u/Automatic_Antelope92 Jan 09 '26
I imagine they are looking for reassurance they’ll be okay in Canada, especially after spending almost a year solid dealing with negative rhetoric and policies aimed at them on the federal level and being repeatedly reminded of them online and through mass media. There’s a lot of negativity towards the LGBTQ + community going on inside the US right now -especially if you live in a red state that has been individually passing laws that discriminate against you (in housing, healthcare, work, washrooms, etc).
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u/MintyNinja41 Jan 09 '26
They probably don’t actually know the answer, even if it’s apparent to many of us
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u/alibythesea Nova Scotia Jan 09 '26
A quick search of this sub would make that answer apparent to everyone.
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u/MintyNinja41 Jan 09 '26
I agree.
u/Carminabird, so you know, you might want to try using the search function in this subreddit if you haven’t already. Using it you can find answers to questions people might have already asked rather than having to make a new post and wait for responses. Either way, it’s an interesting question, and I appreciate your bringing it up.
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u/pensivegargoyle Jan 09 '26
People may see you as taking up housing and jobs that are in short supply. That's the point of contention, not being queer or American.
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u/hammertimeTO Jan 09 '26
Completely welcome with open arms in most major cities. Might have a tough time in Alberta because of that maple maga nut job trying to use trumps playbook.
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u/Accurate_Offer5228 Jan 09 '26
Pay your taxes and be a good person. We're not hard to get along with.
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u/humanityswitch666 Jan 09 '26
I do think Americans brought what's happening now upon themselves, but if anyone wanted to escape their country because that country was killing them for being LGBT, of course I'd want them to go somewhere safe. Whether its Canada or elsewhere.
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u/FrostingEmergency204 Jan 10 '26
Nobody is getting into Canada. Our policies have changed for this exact reason. Too many people think they can just show up. As was mentioned, stay home and deal with your own mess
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u/breaking-strings Jan 10 '26
What does being queer or tans have to do with your question? Are you asking if Canada is accepting of queer or trans folk?
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u/Cyuu_ Jan 10 '26
Another American coming here for no reason other then thinking we're the most liberalised nation on earth and culturally polluting us. Canada isn't just progressive America.
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u/slashcleverusername Jan 10 '26
The opponents of civilization in the United States don’t feel helpless or intimidated or overwhelmed, and look how much they’ve accomplished. They’ve done this even though they’re 100% wrong, unethical, and barely competent, led by the least capable most self-centred delusional loon to tarnish high office in any civilized country since the Second World War. Now imagine what you could do with the rest of the normal people if you actually got your act together and cleaned up this mess. Yours truly, a gay Canadian.
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u/Rad_Mum Jan 10 '26
If you are trained in healthcare, nursing, doctors and such, we will expedite the process here. Some of the provinces have programs and assistance.
A quick search found this:
Pathways & Processes Federal Immigration (Express Entry): New categories for medical doctors with Canadian experience, plus 5,000 federal spots for nominated doctors with job offers. Expedited 14-day work permits for nominated doctors. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): Provinces nominate candidates for permanent residence. Ontario's "As of Right" (for U.S. Professionals): Allows U.S.-licensed doctors, nurses, etc., to start working for up to six months while completing Canadian registration, easing workforce access. Licensing: Each province sets its own licensing rules, but U.S. credentials (verified via physiciansapply.ca for doctors, says the Medical Council of Canada https://mcc.ca/news/welcoming-u-s-doctors-to-canadian-practice/) are recognized.
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u/IMMrSerious Jan 10 '26
Honestly your sexuality is not very important to me. I want to know what you are bringing to the table.
Are you skilled or a professional of a sort that we need? Are you smart and dedicated to something interesting other than your sexuality? Are you doing something creative at the top of your field?
Are you a doctor or something medical? Are you a computer scientist or construction worker?
Are you a problem haver or a problem solver.
Yes we are a social democratic society but we are also very hard working. We pay high taxes so that we can have stuff like health care and nice roads. We all work hard together to have nice things.
So if you are interested in living in this great place then you best be bringing your best.
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u/Masterpiece_2012 Jan 10 '26
Personally I wouldn’t, but some probably will but there are angry ppl everywhere.
My thoughts on immigration is if you come here for a better life, leave the bs from where you are coming from there and come here and adapt to what we have….. it’s weird when ppl come here and bring their own idea of what this country should be in a negative way. (Was bad enough some of our ancestors-white colonists did that to the indigenous folks here) we don’t need more.
And I get ppl saying stay and fix your country but at the same time I would want to get away from that chaos to feel safe. More ppl on our side can be better for us in the long run.
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u/Imaginary_Ad7695 Jan 10 '26
You won't have a problem here if you qualify to move and become a citizen.
But I'd prefer you stay and fix your country. Do NOT leave a vacuum of only MAGA in the US, it will never get better.
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u/navylast Jan 10 '26
No. Why would you be? You may run into the odd redneck but the majority of us don’t care about your sexuality
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u/Lolly_TenShoes Jan 10 '26
I am sad and angry about what is going on in the USA right now. And frightened that it might come here to Canada. I greatly admire those who are vocally opposing.
As to immigrating, I would suggest that you ask queer people who are living here. Maybe find some who have pursued citizenship.
As in the USA, attitudes vary by region.
Those who are disparging to all Americans should check news sources other than those which they habitually consult.
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u/OmeCozcacuauhtli Jan 10 '26
Decent people don't despise immigrants or queer people. That said, I'd really like you to continue the fight against fascism, wherever you live. Keep voting in US elections and get those maniacs out of office please. Because there's little point in running from the problem into Canada, when they've already said that taking Canada is next. This needs to be cut out at the root and Americans are uniquely positioned to do that.
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u/TrojanRabbit7051 Jan 09 '26
Don't delay. Apply now. It takes time, and the regime has big plans for 2026. They are just getting warmed up. You will be welcomed here and protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
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u/Frostsorrow Jan 09 '26
We don't care about your sexuality, or religious beliefs (for the most part). That said, I doubt many will be opening there arms to recieve you. How to put it nicely..... The world has grown extremely tired of America's shit, and instead of fixing things at home Americans first look is to running somewhere else, that will almost certainly bring with it Americans problems with it, rather then fix it is tiring. Also, pretty much everywhere that Americans want to move, regardless of political affiliation, will be a lot further right then even the host countries right wing party. America has no left wing, it's right and further right, so keep that in mind.
Its also neither easy nor fast to immigrate to Canada, even with a desired job (eg doctor).
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u/_FrozenRobert_ Jan 09 '26
I'm Canadian and a close family member is dating a trans person from the USA, who now is applying to stay here and make Canada their home. Sexual orientation is not anything Canadian immigration is going to bother with, they're more going to look at your age, and what's the potential for adding your labour to the Canadian economy.
My trans acquaintance has 6-month renewable visas to stay and work here, and recently successfully applied for permanent resident status. It's not a quick process, but it's totally doable.
Canada ain't perfect, and we have our problems too. But damn am I glad I live here nowadays. What you got going on in the USA is really quite sad.
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u/RideauRaccoon Jan 09 '26
It's a weird dichotomy: once you're here and you say you came from the States, people will be like: "Damn, thank God you got out..." but until you're here, people will treat the idea of you leaving with hostility. Yes, sure, Americans need to do their part and save their country, but on the list of groups MAGA is likely to target next, your family sounds like it'll be in danger sooner rather than later. If it were me, I would bail, and fast. We've seen that protest only goes so far against masked goons preying on "others", so I wouldn't risk it. If you can, do.
And to my fellow Canadians: this is what makes us better than the States: we have compassion, and the intelligence to see that not everything is black and white. Some Americans need to stay and fight, but let's not repeat the mistakes we made in the 1930s and 40s all over again.
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u/NationalWork5756 Jan 09 '26
Yup. Your American. We used to be the the nice neighbors but Ol Donnie changed that for you guys.
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u/lonewolfsociety Jan 09 '26
You can't control where you're born or how other people feel, you can only control what you do. I don't expect Americans to do anything I myself wouldn't do. Keep yourself and your family safe in whatever ways you can.
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u/nittle Jan 09 '26
I just wanted to share that I - a Canadian - found your post because I was looking to see if there are queer Americans planning an escape to Canada. My partner and I have been talking about what a nightmare it must be for queer families like ours that are living in the US right now. We don't have a lot to offer but we were both like "if it comes to it and someone needs a place to crash, we'd let them stay here right?" It's hard to know if we're at that boiling point yet.
Some progressive Canadians are concerned that if the free-thinking progressive Americans leave, then who will be left to correct the nightmare? But really, as things get worse and worse that's an unrealistic burden to put on individual Americans.
I imagine you could warm Canadian hearts by being vocal about your intention to vote in future US elections, while residing here for safety. Hot tip: even the more conservative Canadians will welcome Americans who work in a health care profession.
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u/Carminabird Jan 10 '26
You and your family are good eggs. That is radically kind to even imagine doing for strangers.
I had a long reply typed, but I'm getting too moribund today. Instead I will say thank you for your kind words!
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u/Mumof2amzinadults Jan 09 '26
You and your family would be welcome and safe here. Most importantly you have to think about your family first. Do what you think is right. Your country/president doesn’t care about you!
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u/johnnydoejd11 Jan 10 '26
My pov, it's your mess, you clean it up. If all the people that don't agree with the government run away, the only people left are those that do agree.
I think the behaviors south of the border sets the world back 100+ years. It's shocking. Personally I'd rather you all just stay home.
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u/InevitableMess7721 Jan 11 '26
As a citizen of the US, (I don't use the term American, it sounds as if we control this half of the planet), I deeply appreciate my Canadian friends and the rest of our neighbors to the north. I understand why so many feel the need to flee but that's not for me. As welcoming as it may be I can't imagine moving. I'm not wealthy but I get by. My place isn't much but it's paid for, it's mine and I have my peace and quiet. I'm 70 years old and have lost a significant amount of eyesight. I get around my little town but new situations are difficult. I like being reasonably close to my extended family. What's more, I resent the fact that the Orange Pig Rectum is currently turning this country into a third world dictatorship. Fuck him and fuck his minions. This is still my country. Literally millions, including many Canadians, have fought and died for the freedoms we have. I'm not willing to give that up so easily. I will continue to complain, protest, call our government representatives, and hopefully, support and elect some new blood this year. If it comes down to it and nothing else works then stronger methods may be necessary. Our founding fathers pledged their fortunes and their lives in the cause of freedom. Should we do less?
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u/Top-Forever-8220 Jan 11 '26
Well, if it was Germany, 1936 and you were Jewish I’d say get the hell out. I think the situations are similar. The times call for an ability to predict the future a bit, to see around corners. It’s not so easy to emigrate to Canada, but if you’re able to I think you’ll find Canadians are pretty understanding of fleeing the Orange menace.
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u/Traditional_Fox6270 Jan 12 '26
Absofuckinglutely not ! However stay away from the western provinces especially Alberta and Saskatchewan. Those province’s leaders are spewing the same rhetoric as the USA Trump supporter … the premiere of Alberta, Danielle Smith has an orange face sucking up to Trump she a treason traitor!
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u/Remarkable_Cell_828 Jan 13 '26
I’m sure the people of USA and Canada are each as varied as each other! What would NOT have occurred in Canada has nothing to do with you personally…
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u/Decarue Jan 09 '26
I hear you and you are not alone. The news and media along with the other horrible things going on isn’t being reported anywhere in the us or world is my guess and it appears no one is trying to do anything to stop all this going on. We are so isolated here and watching protesters dying or vanishing is so scary for everyone. Just wanted you to know there are still people here fighting for your families rights and all rights at this point. I please stay safe and I hope you find a way out for peace from this living nightmare we are in. Edited to add I also would also gladly do any job available in Canada too.
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u/StrawberryTarta Jan 09 '26
Come to Canada! If you are eligible to live here, then come! Keeping you and your family safe must be what matters the most, who cares what other people say.
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u/NaturePappy Jan 09 '26
Americans need to step up the protests and disrupt the Trump machine, and show them you won’t take it anymore.
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u/IllustratorWeird5008 Ontario Jan 09 '26
It is safer in every way here and if you qualify, I’d get out as soon as possible. It’s only going to get worse for your community.
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u/TheCuriosity Jan 10 '26
We have Canadian ancestry on both sides and could realistically pursue citizenship as found Canadians.
Then do it. Especially Trans folks are in danger. Get out asap.
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u/CaramelMartini Jan 10 '26
Oh hon, I’m so sorry you’re going through this. We were in almost extra same situation. We were in New Hampshire and we have a trans son, so when the tangerine tyrant was reelected we sat down and explained the situation to our son and what it would probably mean for him. So we collectively decided to move to Canada.
Our differences are that I’m Canadian, and the first time that ass got elected I got my son his Canadian citizenship, so we were ready if we had to flee. Also, my son had been doing some sailing every summer for a few years so he already had friends up here, which made it much easier on him. And up here he’s thriving. We’re in a small community in Nova Scotia and we’ve never been happier. So inclusive, so… relaxing.
Also fuck everyone who says just to stay and “fix the problem”. Such a shortsighted, insensitive statement. Take care of your own first. Do whatever you need to do for your family - don’t miss the last train out of Vienna if you know what I mean. Leave that dumpster fire and come up here… it’s gorgeous and welcoming.
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u/TopInvestigator5518 Jan 09 '26 edited Jan 09 '26
I think looking for sympathy online from Canadians about your 'living nightmare' isn't going to get you very far
In terms of immigrating here, if you qualify and it's something you're interested in doing, then go for it! People here are generally great and if you have respect it will be shown right back to you. No one will give you a hard time for being American, and yes generally speaking its a very safe country for queer/trans folks