Evacuation Plan 2025
If you're concerned about escalating fascism and the possibility of political persecution, it makes sense to prepare an evacuation plan. Think of it like prepping for a natural disaster: hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. Here’s a practical, step-by-step plan for low- to middle-income Americans who might need to flee to Canada, Mexico, or other safer locations.
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## **Step 1: Identify Your Risk Level**
Before making any drastic moves, assess your situation:
- Are you publicly vocal about politics (activist, journalist, etc.)?
- Are you part of a marginalized group already being targeted?
- Do you have government, law enforcement, or extremist threats against you?
If the answer to any of these is yes, take this plan seriously and start implementing it **now**.
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## **Step 2: Gather Essential Documents & Proof of Persecution**
To claim asylum or refugee status, you’ll need to **prove** you are in danger. Collect:
- **Passport & Birth Certificate** (and keep digital + physical copies in safe locations)
- **Proof of threats or harassment** (screenshots, emails, news articles, police reports)
- **Financial records** (to show economic need or ability to sustain yourself abroad)
- **Medical records** (especially if you require regular treatment)
Scan everything and upload it to **encrypted cloud storage** (ProtonDrive, Tresorit) and a USB drive kept on your person.
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## **Step 3: Secure Emergency Funds**
Even if money is tight, **start setting aside cash now**—even a small emergency stash can be lifesaving.
- **Cash:** Banks can freeze accounts under authoritarian regimes. Have at least a few hundred in cash.
- **Crypto & Precious Metals:** If you can, convert some savings into cryptocurrency or gold/silver, which can be used internationally.
- **International Bank Account:** If possible, set up an online bank account in another country (Wise, Revolut, etc.)
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## **Step 4: Plan Your Exit Strategy**
### **Option A: Canada (Preferred for Stability & Asylum)**
- Canada allows **asylum claims at the border**, but under the Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA), you must **already be in Canada** to apply, unless you qualify for an exception (family ties, unaccompanied minors, risk of persecution).
- **How to enter:**
- **Tourist Visa:** If possible, visit as a tourist and apply for asylum once inside.
- **Illegal Border Crossing:** Risky but possible; safest in remote areas like rural Vermont or Montana.
### **Option B: Mexico (Easier Entry, but Less Protection)**
- Mexico does offer asylum, but their process is slow and less protective.
- **How to enter:**
- **Fly to Mexico City or Tijuana:** Americans can stay for 180 days without a visa.
- **Cross on foot into Mexico:** U.S. authorities **do not** stop citizens from leaving.
- **Long-Term Stay:** Apply for a humanitarian visa or political asylum with **COMAR (Mexico’s refugee agency).**
### **Option C: Other Countries (Easier if You Have Money/Skills)**
If Canada or Mexico aren’t ideal, consider:
- **Argentina & Chile:** Historically open to political refugees.
- **Ireland & Portugal:** More accessible visas for Americans.
- **Germany & France:** Strong asylum protections, but harder to access directly.
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## **Step 5: Pack Your Go-Bag**
A lightweight, ready-to-go bag with essentials:
✅ Passport & IDs
✅ Cash & backup payment methods
✅ Change of clothes & sturdy shoes
✅ Medications (at least a month’s supply)
✅ Food & water for 24 hours
✅ Small first-aid kit
✅ Burner phone & backup SIM card
✅ USB drive with important documents
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## **Step 6: Secure Your Digital Footprint**
Before fleeing, **lock down your digital presence** to avoid surveillance.
- **Use encrypted messaging apps** (Signal, ProtonMail)
- **Delete sensitive social media posts** that could be used against you
- **Use a VPN** when researching immigration options
- **Turn off facial recognition & fingerprint access** on devices
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## **Step 7: Create a Safe Contact Network**
Before you leave, set up **trusted contacts** who know your plan.
- **One contact in the U.S.** (to handle legal issues, send you funds if needed)
- **One contact abroad** (to provide local advice & support)
- **A check-in schedule:** Agree on specific times you’ll check in, and a plan if you go silent.
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## **Step 8: Prepare for Asylum Process**
If you seek asylum, be **prepared for interviews and paperwork**.
- Stick to **one clear narrative** about why you are in danger.
- Keep records of **any persecution or threats**.
- Be ready for **long wait times**—some cases take **years**.
If you’re denied asylum, **have a backup plan**—such as claiming **humanitarian parole, work visas, or marrying a citizen of the country you flee to.**
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## **Final Thought: Always Have a Plan B (And C, and D)**
The situation could deteriorate rapidly. Have multiple routes, multiple contacts, and multiple ways to sustain yourself. Hope you never have to use this plan—but if you do, you’ll be ready.