Leftist Who Fled to Canada Over “Genocide Fears” Under Trump, Now Begs Canadians for Free Housing After Discovering Sky-High Rent
A U.S. activist and sociology Ph.D. candidate known online as “Nope Brigade,” who studies far-right movements and Christian nationalism, relocated to Canada shortly after President Donald Trump took office in January 2026. Weeks later, she posted online describing financial strain and difficulties securing housing while living in British Columbia on a temporary visitor visa.
In December 2024, the activist shared a video expressing concern that immigration rhetoric associated with President Trump could contribute to severe human-rights risks in the United States. Drawing on themes from genocide studies, she argued that political rhetoric targeting immigrants could create conditions that precede mass violence. In the video, she compared potential large-scale deportations to historical atrocities, including the Holocaust and the Armenian genocide.
On January 21, 2026—the day after President Trump’s inauguration—the activist posted an update saying she had left the United States and was staying in an Airbnb in British Columbia. She initially described herself as a “refugee,” but later clarified that she had entered Canada as a visitor and did not have refugee status. Under Canadian policy, U.S. citizens generally cannot claim asylum because the United States is considered a safe country.
BREAKING – Leftists who fled to Canada are now begging online for free housing after discovering the cost of living and health care are worse than in the US, saying they cannot work on visas, are burning through their savings, and are struggling to afford skyrocketing rent. pic.twitter.com/b3IWzviw0c
— Right Angle News Network (@Rightanglenews) February 22, 2026
She said her decision to leave the U.S. was influenced by political developments and concerns for personal safety related to her activism and her partner’s political involvement. In posts and videos, she referenced fears of being targeted due to her research on Christian nationalism and her association with left-wing political organizing.
By January 31, 2026, she reported that she and her partner were relying on savings and struggling with Canada’s housing market and cost-of-living pressures. Because they entered on visitor visas, they are not authorized to work in Canada and are not eligible for public health-care coverage, factors she said were contributing to financial stress.
In a public appeal on social media, she asked for help finding affordable housing in the Vancouver region, stating that market rents were higher than she had previously experienced in Los Angeles. She requested a one- or two-bedroom unit at below-market rates that would accommodate her, her partner, and their pets. She said that without stable housing, they might have to leave Canada.
Canada, particularly the Vancouver and Sea-to-Sky corridor region, has experienced well-documented housing shortages and high rental costs in recent years, affecting both residents and newcomers. Temporary visitors typically face additional constraints, including work restrictions and limited access to public services.
The activist has continued posting updates about her situation while seeking longer-term options for residency or relocation.