Mayor Gregor Robertson welcomes refugees and immigrants to Vancouver in statement opposing Trump's US travel ban

Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson has released a statement in response to President Donald Trump’s ban on refugees entering the US.

On Friday, Trump’s government announced the ban on Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, and Yemen.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded to Trump’s action, stating, “To those fleeing persecution, terror, and war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength.”

Echoing Trudeau’s response, Robertson has released a statement welcoming refugees and immigrants to Vancouver.

“Vancouver is known throughout the world for our remarkable diversity. We have a longstanding commitment to welcoming refugees and their families in times of need. This proud history of helping refugees start new lives with hope, security, and freedom is at the heart of what makes Vancouver such an inclusive and compassionate city.

Recent immigration policy changes in the United States undermine the work Vancouver does for diversity, inclusivity and being a welcoming, multicultural city. Vancouver’s Muslim community has a long history of helping those in need including opening a mosque to be an emergency winter shelter for the homeless during last month’s brutal cold snap.

We’re proud to be the first city in Canada to bring in an Access Without Fear policy to guarantee that all residents – regardless of immigration status – have access to City services. Crafted closely with the community, at its core it’s about human safety and dignity. We stand in solidarity with US cities like Seattle, Boston, New York and Chicago, who are standing firm as sanctuary cities, welcoming newcomers with open arms.

Diversity is Vancouver – and Canada’s – strength. I wholeheartedly support Prime Minister Trudeau’s commitment to welcoming refugees fleeing persecution, terror and war to Canada regardless of their faith. As Mayor, I’m proud to welcome refugees and new Canadians to our city, and will continue to work with federal and provincial partners as well as local community groups to help give new residents a warm Vancouver welcome.”

See also

• Iraqi man with family in Canada 'in limbo' in US due to Trump's Muslim ban
• Canadian dual citizens not affected by Trump's travel ban, says Prime Minister
• Air Canada, WestJet waive cancellation fees for travellers affected by Trump's travel ban
• 'Welcome to Canada': Justin Trudeau responds to Donald Trump's anti-refugee order