Everyone has a role to play! Join us as we stand for democracy.
We are DEMOCRACY RISING
We believe democracy must be actively defended and renewed through communities that stand together to resist authoritarian forces. We’re a home for people who see the growth of fascism in the US clearly and cannot look away. We demonstrate to keep the issue of authoritarianism front and centre in the public eye, united in our desire for a humane society built on equality, justice, and care for people and the natural world.
We’ve all seen how quickly anti-constitutional power has advanced in the United States: masked kidnappings under the guise of immigration enforcement, military occupation of cities, open corruption at the highest levels, and the steady dismantling of democratic and environmental protections. These developments do not stop at the border. Canada has already felt the pull of ‘maple Maga’, from political leaders who copy its rhetoric to separatist movements openly backed with U.S. money. The same issues that feed populism there—economic insecurity, lack of housing, wealth inequality, political manipulation— are at work here too.
Our response is to foster communities of resistance. Since February 2025, beginning as Vancouver Against Fascism and developing into
Democracy Rising, we have organized demonstrations, created spaces for mutual support, and joined forces with others who refuse to normalize authoritarianism. Together with aligned groups we’re growing a movement across Canada, linked with allies in the U.S. and beyond, capable of mobilizing nonviolently at scale when democracy is threatened. Our existence can be a deterrence to fascism.
We know the challenge is immense, but history shows that nonviolent resistance by merely 3.5% of a population can stop a dictatorship in its tracks. The core strategy of fascism is to divide—by scapegoating, fear, and disinformation. Our approach is the opposite: to unite communities, to build trust, and insist on truth. Each person has a role to play. Alone, each of us may feel powerless, but together we can become an unstoppable wave. Democracy is rising. We welcome you to join us.
Hootsuite action – January 30th
We are going to present a peaceful but pointed protest outside the Vancouver offices of Hootsuite at 111 East 5th, near Main St. And we need you to join us! At issue: Hootsuite is collaborating with ICE in the U.S. to improve their social media image. Polishing their boots, as it were. Join us from 3pm to 5pm and have fun getting something done!
Read Alex Pretti – a poem by Jude Neale – January 24, 2026