Why Being an Ally is More Important Than Ever for Our Mental Health in Today’s Geopolitical Climate
The re-election of Donald Trump as President of the United States has ushered in a new era of political uncertainty, authoritarianism, and global instability. In just his first two months in office, Trump has implemented sweeping changes under the Project 2025 agenda, including the dismantling of environmental protections, the rollback of LGBTQ+ rights, and the expansion of executive power. These actions have far-reaching consequences, not just for Americans, but for Canadians and the global community. In this context, allyship is not just a moral imperative—it is a critical tool for safeguarding our mental health.
The Current Geopolitical Climate: A Threat to Mental Health
Since taking office, Trump has moved quickly to enact policies that align with the Project 2025 blueprint.
Key actions include:
Erosion of Democratic Norms: Trump has centralized power in the executive branch, bypassing Congress and the judiciary to push through controversial policies. This includes efforts to restrict voting rights, suppress dissent, and undermine the free press.
Attacks on Marginalized Communities: The administration has rolled back protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, restricted access to reproductive healthcare, and implemented harsh immigration policies that disproportionately affect racialized communities.
Environmental Deregulation: Trump has dismantled key environmental protections, including withdrawing from international climate agreements and rolling back regulations on fossil fuel emissions. This not only exacerbates the climate crisis but also threatens global stability.
Expansionist Rhetoric: Trump’s aggressive foreign policy stance, including threats of military intervention and trade wars, has heightened global tensions and raised fears of conflict.
For Canadians, these developments are deeply concerning. The erosion of democratic norms and the rise of authoritarianism in the U.S. has triggered feelings of anxiety, helplessness, and moral distress. The mental health impacts are particularly acute for marginalized communities, who feel directly targeted by these policies.
Why Allyship Matters Now More Than Ever
In our previous blog post, Why Being an Ally is Important for Our Mental Health, we highlighted how allyship fosters connection, reduces isolation, and promotes resilience. In the context of today’s geopolitical realities, these principles are more relevant than ever.
Allyship Combats Isolation and Fear
Marginalized communities—whether they are racialized individuals, LGBTQ+ folks, or immigrants—are feeling the weight of rising authoritarianism. By standing as allies, we can help counteract the isolation and fear that these groups experience. For Canadians, this means actively supporting those who may feel vulnerable to the spillover effects of Trump’s policies, such as refugees fleeing persecution or LGBTQ+ individuals facing heightened discrimination.Allyship Strengthens Collective Resilience
The mental health benefits of allyship are reciprocal. When we take action to support others, we regain a sense of agency in the face of overwhelming global challenges. Whether it’s advocating for climate justice, protesting against hate speech, or supporting organizations that resist authoritarianism, allyship helps us build a collective resilience that is essential in these turbulent times.Allyship Protects Democracy
The rise of fascist ideologies and expansionist policies threatens the very foundations of democracy. As Canadians, we have a responsibility to protect our democratic values by standing in solidarity with those who are most at risk. This includes challenging misinformation, advocating for inclusive policies, and holding our leaders accountable for upholding human rights.
What Canadians Can Do to Be Effective Allies
Educate Yourself and Others
Stay informed about the implications of Trump’s policies and their impact on global stability. Share this knowledge with your community to raise awareness and foster critical dialogue.Support Marginalized Communities
Whether through donations, volunteering, or amplifying their voices, support organizations that are working to protect the rights of marginalized groups. In Canada, this could include groups like the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, Rainbow Railroad, or local refugee support networks.Advocate for Inclusive Policies
Use your voice to advocate for policies that promote equity and inclusion. Write to your elected representatives, participate in protests, and vote for leaders who prioritize human rights and democratic values.Practice Self-Care and Community Care
The mental health toll of living in a politically charged world can be overwhelming. Prioritize self-care and encourage others to do the same. Building strong, supportive communities is one of the most effective ways to combat the stress and anxiety of these times.Make Conscious Economic Choices
Economic allyship is a powerful way to resist harmful policies and support marginalized communities. Consider the following actions:Support Marginalized Businesses: Prioritize purchasing from businesses owned by racialized individuals, LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, women, and other marginalized groups. This helps redistribute economic power and fosters equity.
Boycott Companies That Undermine DEI Initiatives: Research companies’ stances on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Avoid supporting businesses that align with or benefit from authoritarian policies or fail to uphold DEI values.
Reduce Reliance on American Goods: In response to the U.S. administration’s harmful policies, consider reducing your consumption of American products and services. Instead, support local Canadian businesses and industries, which can help strengthen our economy and promote self-reliance.
Allyship as a Path to Healing
Allyship is not just about supporting others—it’s also a powerful way to nurture your own mental health. When we engage in allyship, we build meaningful connections with others, which can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. In a world where authoritarianism and division are on the rise, these connections remind us that we are not alone in our struggles. Allyship also fosters a sense of purpose and meaning, which are key components of mental well-being. By standing up for justice and equality, we align our actions with our values, creating a sense of integrity and fulfillment. Moreover, witnessing the positive impact of our support on others can boost our own emotional resilience, helping us cope with the stress and anxiety of living in an uncertain world.
The Importance of Taking Action to Your Mental Health
Taking action is a vital antidote to the feelings of helplessness and despair that often arise in the face of global challenges. When we passively observe injustices without responding, we may experience moral distress, a form of psychological suffering that occurs when we feel unable to act in accordance with our values. By contrast, taking action—whether through advocacy, community organizing, or supporting marginalized groups—empowers us to reclaim a sense of agency. This proactive approach not only combats feelings of powerlessness but also strengthens our mental resilience. Action transforms anxiety into purpose, fear into courage, and isolation into solidarity. In doing so, it helps us build a healthier, more hopeful mindset, even in the most challenging times.
Whatever it is, we’re here for you.
Life is uncertain. Jobs are stressful. Parenting is hard. Relationships take work. Families can be dysfunctional. And sometimes, love hurts. When you’re confronted by feelings, events, or issues that are making your life challenging, it’s okay to ask for some help.
