Harry and Meghan Face Hostile Reception in Vancouver

Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, encountered a hostile crowd upon their arrival in Vancouver for the upcoming Invictus Games.

The couple, who have been residing in Canada since stepping back from their royal duties in January 2020, were met with boos and screams as they landed in the city on Tuesday.

The Invictus Games, a sporting event for injured veterans founded by Prince Harry in 2014, was the reason for their visit.

The welcoming committee for the couple was far from warm, with protesters expressing their discontent through signs and verbal insults.

Demonstrators held placards bearing messages such as “Go back to England, you are not welcome here” and “Don't waste our tax dollars,” while shouting obscenities at the royal pair as they departed from the airport.

Some individuals even resorted to throwing eggs and tomatoes at their vehicles in a show of disdain.

The overwhelming negativity of the reception seemed to unsettle Harry and Meghan, who appeared visibly shaken and uncomfortable amidst the chaos.

Despite the commotion, the couple maintained their composure and refrained from engaging with the hostile crowd or the media.

Their visit to Vancouver was intended to be low-key, with plans to attend the opening ceremony of the Invictus Games and meet with various participants and organizers.

The Invictus Games hold a special significance for Prince Harry, who initiated the event following his military service in Afghanistan.

The Games, which bring together 500 athletes from 20 countries, serve as a platform to honor the resilience and bravery of wounded, injured, and sick military personnel and veterans.

However, the purpose of Harry and Meghan's visit was overshadowed by the controversy surrounding their decision to step back from their royal roles and pursue an independent life.

The couple, commonly referred to as “Megxit” by the media, have faced criticism for what some perceive as disrespect towards the monarchy and abandonment of their responsibilities.

Additionally, their luxurious lifestyle, security expenses, and perceived environmental hypocrisy have drawn further scrutiny.

The decision to settle in Canada has particularly irked many Canadians, with a majority expressing reluctance to bear the financial burden associated with hosting the couple.

As Harry and Meghan's arrival coincided with a period of political turmoil in Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau grappled with protests and blockades by indigenous groups and environmental activists opposing a contentious pipeline project.

The ongoing unrest in the country further heightened tensions surrounding the royal couple's visit, with some supporters questioning their priorities and calling for a more humble approach to their public image.

Despite facing backlash and calls for a more modest way of living, Harry and Meghan have chosen to remain silent on the matter.

A spokesperson for the couple emphasized that their visit to Canada was a personal affair and underscored their admiration for the Canadian people and their concerns.

The couple's commitment to contributing to and supporting the country remains steadfast, with no intentions of departing from their current residence on Vancouver Island.

In the midst of public scrutiny and differing opinions, Harry and Meghan navigate the complexities of their newfound roles outside the traditional confines of royalty.

Their journey in Canada unfolds against a backdrop of both support and skepticism, as they strive to carve out a path that aligns with their values and aspirations.

The Invictus Games, a symbol of resilience and unity, stand as a beacon of hope amidst the tumultuous reception faced by the royal couple in Vancouver.