A significant backlash has been directed towards Prince Harry and Meghan Markle by the veterans’ community in Vancouver.
Hundreds of veterans gathered outside the city hall to protest, urging the Sussexes to refrain from participating in the upcoming Invictus Games in Canada next year.
The veterans, comprising wounded, injured, or sick service personnel and veterans, expressed their discontent with Harry and Meghan’s actions and statements, deeming them disrespectful, disloyal, and detrimental to both the military and the monarchy.
The protesters accused Harry and Meghan of exploiting the Invictus Games, established in 2014, as a platform to advance their personal agenda and interests while profiting from the media and entertainment industry.
Organized by a group known as Veterans Against the Sussexes, the demonstration aimed to remove the couple from the Invictus Games foundation, as well as revoke their Sussex titles and patronages.
Through online and offline campaigns, the group lobbied authorities to replace Harry and Meghan with other royal patrons or representatives for the event.
Attended by approximately 500 veterans from diverse branches and ranks of the Canadian Armed Forces, alongside supporters and onlookers, the protest was marked by fervent chants, sign-waving, and symbolic acts such as burning effigies of Harry and Meghan.
Slogans and placards bore messages like “Harry and Meghan, go away,” “Invictus Games, not Sussex Games,” and “Harry, you betrayed us.”
The demonstrators also sang anthems and displayed flags emblematic of their allegiance to the military and the Invictus Games.
Despite the intensity of emotions, the protest remained peaceful and orderly, with participants adhering to directives from law enforcement and organizers, ensuring no disturbances to the public or traffic.
Veterans shared personal anecdotes of overcoming adversity through the Invictus Games, underscoring their disappointment in Harry and Meghan for what they perceived as abandonment and disrespect.
The demonstration, a first of its kind in Canada, has placed considerable pressure on the Invictus Games Foundation and its stakeholders, highlighting the challenges faced in light of the controversy.
Responding to the protest, the Invictus Games Foundation, chaired by Prince William with Harry and Meghan as patrons, acknowledged the veterans’ perspectives while affirming support for the couple’s involvement.
Emphasizing a commitment to a successful event in Canada next year, the foundation expressed anticipation for the participation of veterans and their families.
Similarly, organizers and sponsors reiterated their backing for Harry and Meghan, signaling optimism for the upcoming Invictus Games despite the unrest.
The demonstration reflects broader discontent within the veteran community and the public regarding Harry and Meghan’s roles, raising uncertainties surrounding the future of the Invictus Games.
Scheduled for February 8 to 16, 2025, in Vancouver and Whistler, the event is anticipated to draw competitors from 23 nations engaging in various sports.
With thousands of attendees expected, the Invictus Games represent a tribute to the bravery and resilience of service personnel and veterans, underscoring the significance of the event amidst ongoing controversies.
