Since pledging to resettle 20,000 Afghan nationals in August of 2021, Canada has upped this number, pledging to accept 40,000 as soon as possible, & has already accepted 7,550 as of February 11, 2022

Part of this number is an addition of nearly 460 refugees that arrived throughout the last week on 20 different commercial flights. One of the larger flights containing 90 refugees landed in Vancouver on February 3, 2022, and passengers were greeted by Musqueam elders, an indigenous people who have long inhabited Vancouver and its surrounding areas. Their traditional welcome included a cedar brushing and welcome song which is to ensure a fresh start and safety throughout their new journey in Canada.

The Musqueam people, as the original land settlers, have an agreement with the Vancouver Airport (YVR), and both parties hope this ceremony showcases indigenous heritage and encourages new Canadians to learn about the rich history of these peoples. 

Source: Canada.ca