More 2SLGBTQ+ Americans looking to move to Canada since Trump’s re-election

The recent return of U.S. President Donald Trump to the White House has sparked a significant increase in the number of inquiries from 2SLGBTQ+ Americans looking to leave the country, according to a prominent aid organization. Rainbow Railroad, a group that helps 2SLGBTQ+ individuals fleeing persecution, reported a surge in requests for assistance from Americans following Trump’s return.

Swathi Sekhar, the director of protection initiatives at Rainbow Railroad, revealed that the organization received nearly 1,200 inquiries from 2SLGBTQ+ Americans on November 6, 2024, alone. This marked a substantial increase from the approximately 700 U.S.-based inquiries received up to that point in 2024. Sekhar noted that about half of the individuals seeking help were transgender, including both trans men and trans women.

In total, Rainbow Railroad has received over 1,800 requests for assistance from the U.S. so far this year, representing an astounding 1,100% increase compared to the first two months of 2024. Canadian immigration lawyers have also reported a growing number of inquiries from American members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community seeking to relocate to Canada.

Adrienne Smith, an immigration lawyer, shared a voicemail with The Canadian Press from an American abroad who expressed fear about returning home due to concerns about Trump’s policies towards transgender individuals. Smith mentioned that her Toronto-based law firm has been inundated with inquiries from 2SLGBTQ+ Americans looking to move to Canada since Trump’s return.

The sentiment among those reaching out for assistance is one of terror and urgency, as they fear that their rights are being eroded. Trump’s executive orders, particularly those focusing on gender recognition and transgender athletes, have fueled apprehension among the 2SLGBTQ+ community in the U.S.

Rainbow Railroad typically assists 2SLGBTQ+ individuals fleeing persecution in their home countries. However, Sekhar explained that most U.S. citizens do not meet the legal criteria to qualify as refugees. Proving the level of persecution required for refugee status is challenging for American citizens, as the U.S. is generally viewed as a safe and democratic country.

Asylum seekers in Canada must demonstrate a genuine fear of persecution or serious harm in their home country to qualify for protection. The Canadian government is monitoring the situation to assess any potential impact of Trump’s orders on Canadian citizens, such as restrictions on cross-border travel.

Despite the challenges posed by Canada’s immigration system and reduced intake of permanent residents, Rainbow Railroad is directing individuals seeking to leave the U.S. to other resources, including immigration lawyers. Smith emphasized that the emotional toll on her staff, many of whom are members of the LGBTQ community, has been significant due to the volume and nature of the inquiries.

In conclusion, the increasing interest in leaving the U.S. among 2SLGBTQ+ individuals reflects the deep concerns and fears sparked by Trump’s policies. Organizations like Rainbow Railroad and dedicated professionals like immigration lawyers are working to support those seeking refuge and a safer environment.