The presidential pardon signed by Jimmy Carter in 1977 was a significant gesture aimed at inviting thousands of Americans who had fled to Canada during the Vietnam War to return home and contribute to national healing. Many of these individuals sought refuge in Canada to avoid the draft, as the conflict resulted in approximately 60,000 American casualties.
Canada, which did not support the war, welcomed these draft dodgers with minimal scrutiny. However, many war resisters were reluctant to return, having faced personal costs such as damaged family relationships and societal stigma. While some viewed their actions as principled, others labeled them as cowardly.
As the 50th anniversary of the war's conclusion approaches, the context remains turbulent, with President Trump's economic policies and threats to Canadian sovereignty rekindling unease among Americans living in Canada.
A recent journey across Canada involved discussions with a dozen individuals, now in their 70s or 80s, who reflected on their decisions to leave the U.S. and their sentiments regarding both nations.
Richard Lemm, who fled to Canada in 1968 after being denied conscientious objector status, described his departure as politically and morally motivated. He expressed concern over the current polarization in American society.
Rex Weyler, a former draft resister and co-founder of Greenpeace, noted that recent inquiries from Americans about moving to Canada indicate a desire to escape political discontent. He emphasized that fleeing is not a viable solution.
Don Gayton, who served in the Peace Corps before receiving a draft notice, moved to British Columbia in 1974 with his family. His decision caused a rift with his father, who disapproved of his choice to avoid military service.
Susan Mulkey, a vegetarian from Los Angeles, relocated to Canada at 20 to pursue a lifestyle aligned with her values. She now engages in community forestry and helps expatriates participate in U.S. elections.
John Bergenske moved to Canada in 1970 after being granted conscientious objector status. He emphasized the importance of loving the new country when leaving one's home.
Ed Washington, whose family has a military background, moved back to British Columbia in 1974 after becoming disillusioned with the drug culture in his social circles. He prefers to focus on living in the present rather than dwelling on the past.
Brian Conrad, who deferred his draft while in university, eventually settled in British Columbia and has considered returning to the U.S. but values Canada's gun control and healthcare systems.
Ellen Burt, raised in a Quaker family, moved to Canada to escape the Vietnam War and has since built a life there, although she now perceives a decline in Canada's reputation as a refuge.
Brian Patton, a former park ranger, crossed into Canada after feeling a strong connection to the Canadian Rockies, which he described as a sanctuary.
Corky Evans, who initially attempted to comply with the draft, ultimately moved to Canada and built a career in politics, expressing gratitude for the opportunities he found there.
Bob Hogue, who went AWOL from the U.S. Army, crossed into Canada with his family in 1969. He has since built a life in British Columbia while maintaining a connection to his American roots and expressing concern for the future of both countries.