Canadians are feeling the holiday spirit, and a renewed sense of pride in our country, and our leader. Canadian kindness and concern for the families arriving shone like a beacon for refugees setting foot in Canada after their long ordeal.
The Toronto Airport was prepared to help ease the stress for Syrian families arriving in a foreign country, and signs were placed in Arabic, including a temporary play area for the children.
A group of elementary children sang beautifully an ancient Islamic song that was once sang to the Prophet Mohammed when he sought refuge in the city of Medina. [ 01 ]
“This is a wonderful night where we get to show not just a planeload of new Canadians what Canada’s all about, but we get to show the world how to open our hearts and welcome in people who are fleeing extraordinarily difficult situations,” Trudeau said.
The Right Honourable Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau released the following statement regarding the arrival of Syrian families.
“Today, we welcome many Syrian refugees who were forced to flee their homeland because of war and conflict. Canada is doing the right thing by providing refuge for those so desperately seeking safety.
“This is a significant step in fulfilling our plan to bring 25,000 Syrian refugees to Canada in the coming months. It also demonstrates our commitment to refugee resettlement, which is part of Canada’s proud humanitarian tradition.
“I know that, even for those facing extreme hardship, tragedy, and war in their country, leaving home is very difficult. The transition to a new life in a new country can be a very daunting process.
“Let me reassure those coming to our country that our communities and all orders of government will work closely, together, to make it easier for you to adjust to these changes and become full participants in Canadian society. While it might be much colder outside than back home, I am sure that you will find warm welcomes from your new neighbours.
“In the years to come, Canadians will look back with enormous pride on the contributions made by Syrian refugees and how they have made our country even better.” [ 02 ]
Two days later, another plane arrived in Montreal with 161 privately sponsored Syrian refugees. They received a personal “welcome refugees” by Philippe Couillard, the Quebec premier, John McCallum, the federal immigration minister, and Denis Coderre, Montreal’s mayor.
Canada Is Back, And Just In Time
“…Canada’s generosity – and Mr Trudeau’s personal warmth and leadership – can serve as a beacon for others,” a New York Times editorial headlined Canada’s Warm Embrace of Refugees maintained. “[I]t puts to shame the callous and irresponsible behaviour of the American governors and presidential candidates who have argued that the United States, for the sake of its security, must shut its doors to all Syrian refugees.” [ 03 ]
GQ Magazine said of Canadian’s display of welcoming refugees, “Trudeau is showing just how far leadership traits like compassion and open-mindedness can go toward endearing yourself to your countrymen. Who would have thought?” [ 04 ]
A Canadian executive has personally committed 1 million dollars, which will sponsor 50 refugee families.
Canadian business have raised and donated millions in sponsorship, housing, furnishings, and clothing. Churches, communities, and individuals, have stepped up to the human crisis and sponsored a refugee, and one by one, the homeless are coming home, to Canada.
Alistair Reign News Blog 