Canada has temporarily paused the deportation of a non-binary U.S. citizen, Angel Jenkel, citing risks to queer individuals in America. This decision, made by a Federal Court judge, highlighted that the initial immigration officer failed to consider the escalating dangers faced by LGBTQ2S+ people in the U.S. and relied on outdated information.
Jenkel, who overstayed a visitor visa while caring for their fiancé, argued that returning to the U.S. would put them at risk due to recent legislative changes and societal shifts impacting trans and non-binary rights. The ruling acknowledges that the U.S., traditionally considered a safe country, may not be so for marginalized communities, setting a potentially significant precedent for future asylum claims by LGBTQ2S+ Americans in Canada.
The Queer God Squad blesses Canada for its humanitarian vision and sensitivity, even as we lament how cruel the US government has become in the age of MAGA.
