Protecting Canadian Democracy: What You Can Do

Right-wing extremism is a threat but we CAN fight against it.

Canadian democracy is under threat. It’s not always obvious—it doesn’t come with flashing warning signs or dramatic speeches. Instead, it seeps in quietly, masked as “protecting freedoms” while actually chipping away at them.

Photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash

If you’re feeling unsettled by the rhetoric of recent years, you’re not alone. Canada is seeing a rise in right-wing extremism that echoes the movements we’ve watched unfold in the United States. And the consequences? They’re already here.

The American Influence: Importing Extremism

For decades, Canada has prided itself on being different from our neighbours to the south. But the influence of U.S. right-wing extremism is undeniable. Canadian far-right groups have taken inspiration from American tactics, using misinformation, fear-mongering, and conspiracy theories to stoke division. The so-called “Freedom Convoy” protests? They weren’t just about truckers—they were a direct reflection of the anti-government, anti-vaccine, and anti-democratic movements seen in the U.S. 

Investigations into the convoy’s funding revealed that a significant portion of donations came from foreign sources, particularly from the U.S. Crowdfunding platforms were used to channel millions of dollars into the movement, raising concerns about outside influence on Canadian politics. Additionally, reports linked key organizers to extremist and hate groups, including white nationalist factions and individuals with ties to violent insurrections. This wasn’t just a grassroots protest—it was a strategically fueled disruption that aimed to destabilize trust in Canadian institutions.

Social media has only accelerated this process. Far-right influencers with strong U.S. ties are gaining traction in Canada, spreading dangerous ideologies that erode trust in democratic institutions. And politicians? Some are more than happy to fan the flames for votes, legitimizing extremist views under the guise of “free speech” or “protecting Canadian values.”

How Canadian Democracy is Being Undermined

If you think Canada is immune to democratic backsliding, think again. Here’s how it’s happening right now:

• Disinformation and Media Attacks: The erosion of trust in mainstream media is a key tactic of authoritarian movements. Far-right figures paint journalists as “enemies of the people” to delegitimize factual reporting and push their own narratives.

• Threats Against Public Officials: Politicians, journalists, and public health officials have faced increasing threats and harassment. This intimidation silences dissent and makes it harder for people to do their jobs without fear.

• Weakening of Institutions: Conservative politicians have openly raised the spectre of election rigging, called for defunding public services, and pushed policies that favour corporate interests over democratic governance.

• The Rise of Populism: We’re seeing a push toward strongman politics—leaders who claim to “speak for the people” while undermining democratic norms and institutions.

What You Can Do

It’s easy to feel helpless in the face of rising authoritarianism, but inaction only helps those trying to dismantle democracy. Here’s what you can do:

Stay Informed

• Follow credible Canadian journalists and political commentators like Justin Ling, Fatima Syed, Rachel Gilmore, and David Moscrop. 

• Read independent media outlets like The Narwhal, The Tyee, and PressProgress.

• Fact-check information before sharing. Sites like Media Bias/Fact Check and Snopes can help.

Take Action

• Sign petitions that support press freedom, fair elections, and stronger democratic institutions. Start with  LeadNow and Democracy Watch.

• Contact your MP about issues that matter. Politicians count on people not paying attention—prove them wrong.

• Support organizations fighting misinformation and hate, like the Canadian Anti-Hate Network.

Build Community

• Talk to friends and family. Change happens through conversation, not just online arguments.

• Attend local events, rallies, and town halls to stay engaged.

• Vote. Every. Single. Time.

The Bottom Line

Canadian democracy isn’t guaranteed—it survives because people fight for it. The rise of authoritarianism in Canada is real, but it’s not inevitable. By staying informed, pushing back against disinformation, and taking action, we can protect what makes this country worth fighting for.