In 1977, a presidential pardon from Jimmy Carter brought a wave of hope to Americans who fled to Canada to avoid the Vietnam War draft. This amnesty extended an invitation to thousands to return and assist in mending a divided nation. However, for many draft dodgers who sought refuge in Canada, the decision to leave carried significant emotional weight, resulting in fractured relationships and lingering feelings of guilt and shame.
Canada provided a sanctuary during this turbulent time, not aligning itself with the war and welcoming American resisters. Yet, even five decades later, as we commemorate the end of the Vietnam War, former resisters now in their 70s and 80s still grapple with the ramifications of their exile. Recent political and economic tensions, particularly during the Trump administration, renewed anxieties about the interconnectedness of both nations and the implications for resisters living in Canada.
I traveled through various towns and cities across Canada, speaking with a dozen of these individuals about their retrospective views on their choices and how they perceive their originals and adopted homelands. This exploration reveals a rich tapestry of experiences as they express both pride in their principled stand against the war and concerns about ongoing political dynamics. The stories of these war resisters showcase the profound and lasting impacts of historical events, reminding us of the continuing need for dialogue and understanding.
