A report published by CBC in April 2025 explores how the U.S. is rapidly turning into a hostile and less inclusive place for members of the LGBTQ+ community, many of whom are planning to relocate to Canada. In particular, people interviewed in the feature highlight the beauty and freedom experienced in Nova Scotia, a province where the queer community seems to live in perfect symbiosis with dignity and greater acceptance. Looking north for a fresh new life made social restrictions of President Trump’s second term feel like a distant memory.

Hard numbers, hard truths. According to the latest Canadian census, there was a 1,100% surge in LGBTQ+ Americans applying for dual passports in 2025 alone. With 0.48% of Nova Scotia’s population identifying as transgender or non-binary, the piece includes positive testimonials from U.S. citizens who have broken away. For example, the activist Julianna Antonius said she felt betrayed by the United States, citing the false illusion of inclusivity (post-election) as the last straw that pushed her to seek a safe space somewhere else.

The shift in migration dynamics grew after Nova Scotia’s November election. During this time, organizations like Rainbow Refugee Association and the Immigrant Service Association affirmed to have experienced a significant rise in relocation requests from Americans and Europeans as well.

This is living proof that Trump’s new policies are affecting more people than expected. In the end, another powerful example comes from Thomas Cooper, born and raised in Cape Breton, who chose to go back to his homeland and didn’t renew his American visa, citing daily economic challenges and pressure on immigrants.