American Refugee: Why This Publication Exists
A Response to the New Reality in the United States
An American refugee, by definition, is someone who has fled the United States due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. It’s a legal term, but in recent years, it has also become a lived reality for many.
For those of us who have watched the trajectory of the United States with a wary eye, the question has never been whether things could take a darker turn; it’s been a matter of when. On the morning of November 6, 2024, I awoke to news that confirmed my fears. The voters of key swing states had once again elected Donald Trump in the White House, not just through the Electoral College but also by the popular vote. America had spoken, and its answer was clear.
At that moment, I felt an unmistakable shift, not just in American politics but in what it meant to be tied to the United States.
From Observation to Action
I am both a Canadian and an American citizen, fortunate enough to have lived in multiple countries before ultimately settling back in Canada. Though I no longer reside in the U.S., much of my life remains tethered to it: friends, family, memories, and an ongoing concern for the place that shaped me. Even before the election, I had been following U.S. developments closely. But witnessing the country reelect a man who had already eroded its democratic institutions made something in me snap.
Writing became my outlet. In my “Canadian Returnee” publication, I processed my thoughts, dissected the implications, and tried to make sense of what had happened. To my surprise, that piece struck a nerve. Engagement spiked. Readers, new and old, reached out. Many of you expressed your concerns, frustrations, and fears.
So, I kept writing.
What began as a single post evolved into an ongoing conversation. I expanded my focus to include not just my personal experiences but also political and social commentary. I started a podcast. I shared updates on Substack Notes. With each step, you responded, reading, commenting, and resharing my work. Your engagement told me that I wasn’t alone in grappling with these issues.
A Space for the Displaced
As a “Canadian Returnee” grew, I also noticed something else. Some of you were frustrated, even confused, about the mix of Canadian and U.S. topics. You wanted a clearer separation, a space dedicated specifically to the American experience.
That is why the “American Refugee” was created.
This is more than just another publication. It’s a response to a crisis, one that is redefining what it means to be an American, even for those of us who live beyond its borders. In the United States today, fundamental rights are under siege. People are increasingly targeted for their race, religion, gender, political views, or even for simply existing in the "wrong" space. The risks are real, and the consequences of staying silent are dire.
This publication is for those who see what is happening and refuse to look away. It’s for those who feel like outsiders in their own country or who have had to leave to live freely. It’s for those who still have skin in the game, whether through personal ties or moral obligation.
Building Something That Matters
I don’t take your time or attention for granted. In an era of constant distraction, your decision to read and engage with my work means everything. This is a labour of love, born from necessity, shaped by experience, and fueled by the need to speak the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable.
If this resonates with you, I encourage you to be part of this journey. Read, share, and subscribe. If you find value in this work, consider supporting it with a paid subscription or even just by buying me a coffee. Every action, big or small, helps sustain a space where we can examine, critique, and push for something better.
This is the “American Refugee”. Whether you’re new here or have been with me from the start, I’m grateful you’ve found your way to this space.
Subscribe to get full access to the newsletter and publication archives.
Stay up-to-date
Never miss an update; every new post is sent directly to your email inbox. For a spam-free, ad-free reading experience, plus audio and community features, get the Substack app.
Join the crew
Be part of a community of people who share your interests. Participate in the comments section or support this work with a subscription.
To learn more about the tech platform that powers this publication, visit Substack.com.
