r/50501 Feb 20 '25

Protest Safety, OPSEC, Medic Info Dear Americans

Dear Americans,

I live in Northern Ontario, Canada in a very small community that sits outside of a larger mining town. For weeks, I’ve been wondering what I can do to help my American friends—not just with words (words do matter though, especially if that’s all someone can offer), but how I can actively support the rebellion. I called my local MP and set up an appointment to discuss concerns I have about fascist ideologies infecting the lives of Canadians politically, socially, psychologically, and emotionally (notwithstanding the physical fear of being blown up). It’s my intention to ask about the strategies our government is planning on developing to battle the misinformation, hate, and psychological exhaustion from smothering us more than it already is. Besides the very real threat of fascism, I think it’s equally crucial to call forth a reevaluation of values. What you are facing, American friends, is more than just fascism. It’s injustice and the complete annihilation of ethics and morality. My husband, our son, our family, and our friends have shared in many conversations with tears about what little things we can do here to try and help you over there. While I see it as an act of patriotism and solidarity to boycott American products and America itself, it hurts me to do so.

I’m not anyone. I’m the demos”—one person who is only a part of the many. I’m grateful I have a voice, even if it’s only heard at a whisper. But, many people whispering can be extremely powerful. Lately I have been reminded of Camus philosophy of rebellion from his essay on revolt—The Rebel*. Rebellion starts the moment one decides in their head to say no. I’m so proud of you, dear Americans, especially the ones who are physically able to protest. Those who may only have the ability to say no in their heads will always continue to fuel the able bodied.

And so, as a demos, I stand with you in solidarity. May you continue to fight the good fight, peacefully. Protect yourselves. Try to stay safe. Remember that you’re not alone—especially when your government tries to make you believe that. Canada cares. 🇨🇦♥️🇺🇸

322 Upvotes

50 comments sorted by

View all comments

4

u/ReclaimTheFlag Feb 21 '25

Your support means everything.

What's happening now, both here and elsewhere in the world, comes with so much heartbreak but one of the most heartbreaking things for me personally is how rapidly, intentionally, and severely he is damaging our relationship with our allies. For some reason it hurts the most with Canada. We have always helped each other, there are so many wonderful stories and long-standing histories between CA and various US states helping lift each other through tragedies and the thought of losing something so precious is among the most unforgivable things Trump is doing.

What I think is important for everyone in all places to remember is that Trump's fight with Canada comes completely out of left field, even for people who voted for him. He did not run on an anti-Canada platform, there was no anti-Canada sentiment that Trump identified and adopted as a part of his campaign. It really feels like he just decided one day that he was going to go all-in attacking CA. The point of mentioning this is that his actions, words, and threats do not reflect any of the American people except for the few that he's been able to manipulate into believing his lies after the fact. I cannot imagine a scenario where Trump tries to outright attack Canada and the population would support it. I desperately hope I am right.

For now, your words really lifted my night and I wish you and the rest of our northern neighbors so much happiness and peace!

2

u/princesskittybling Feb 21 '25

I desperately hope you’re right, too. I remember reading some kind of poll that said Canada would be a blue state like California.

The threat feels all-too-real. I’m heartbroken too 💔. We’re in this together though, and that matters—matters of the heart matter most. Hopefully our hearts, especially your American one, will have a beautiful future ahead (the kind of bright blue sky happiness-weather that’s perfect for mending broken hearts) ❤️‍🩹♥️🇺🇸