“Hands Off”: Canadians Rally Nationwide Against Donald Trump’s Policies
In a powerful display of political activism and national unity, thousands of Canadians gathered in cities across the country this weekend to protest against former U.S. President Donald Trump. Under the rallying cry “Hands Off,” demonstrators voiced their concerns about Trump’s re-emergence on the political scene and the potential impact of his policies on Canada and the wider global community.
From Vancouver to Halifax, the protests drew large crowds, with organizers reporting attendance in the thousands. The movement was sparked by growing unease over Trump’s aggressive rhetoric toward international alliances, trade agreements, and climate change commitments—issues that deeply resonate with Canadians concerned about the future of global cooperation.
Nationwide Turnout
Major cities such as Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Calgary witnessed peaceful yet passionate demonstrations. Protesters waved signs bearing slogans like “No to Trumpism,” “Hands Off Our Rights,” and “Stop the Hate,” calling attention to Trump’s controversial legacy and the fear that a return to power could reignite divisive policies.
In Vancouver, demonstrators marched through downtown streets, chanting in unison while Indigenous leaders, environmental activists, and immigrant rights advocates addressed the crowd. Meanwhile, in Montreal, protestors assembled at Place Émilie-Gamelin, where speakers highlighted the dangers of nationalist ideologies and praised Canadian values of inclusivity and diplomacy.
Why Canadians Are Speaking Out
While Donald Trump is not a Canadian political figure, his influence is deeply felt north of the border. During his presidency, Trump’s administration withdrew from key international agreements such as the Paris Climate Accord and disrupted NAFTA—now replaced by the USMCA—causing uncertainty in Canada’s economic and environmental strategies.
Activists say their message is clear: Canada must resist any spillover effects of Trump-style politics, especially as the 2024 U.S. election aftermath continues to reverberate through global discourse. “This isn’t just an American issue,” said Maya Rahim, an organizer with the Hands Off movement in Toronto. “Trump’s policies affect global stability, trade, immigration, and human rights. Canadians have a right to push back.”
A Call for Solidarity and Vigilance
The Hands Off protests emphasized solidarity with marginalized groups in both Canada and the U.S., expressing concern over the rise of right-wing populism. Many attendees shared personal stories and carried signs supporting immigrants, the LGBTQ+ community, Indigenous sovereignty, and climate action.
“We’re here to send a message: we will not let fear, division, or hate dictate our future,” said Arjun Mehta, a student protester in Calgary. “We want Canada to stand strong in its values, and we want our leaders to stay vigilant against any influence that could undermine that.”
Political Response
While no major Canadian political leaders formally attended the protests, several MPs expressed support on social media, acknowledging the importance of civic engagement and democratic action. Critics of the movement, however, argued that focusing on American politics distracts from domestic issues—a claim organizers reject, pointing to the interconnectedness of global politics.
What’s Next?
With Trump’s political ambitions far from over, organizers of the Hands Off movement say this is just the beginning of their advocacy. Plans are underway for further demonstrations, educational campaigns, and coordinated efforts with American allies ahead of the next U.S. election cycle.
As the world watches Trump’s political trajectory, one thing is clear: many Canadians are prepared to speak out, organize, and defend their vision of a more inclusive and cooperative future.
Source : The Canadian Press
