Protesters greet William and Kate

Associated Press

MONTREAL

Prince William and Kate were met by a small group of protesters Saturday in the French-speaking province of Quebec as the royal couple visited a children’s hospital during a nine-day journey through Canada on their first official overseas trip.

About 35 protesters, including members of the separatist group Reseau de Resistance du Quebecois, or Quebecker Resistance Network, stood outside Sainte-Justine University Hospital Centre in Montreal chanting, “A united people will never be vanquished.”

They carried signs that read, “Parasites go home,” “War Criminals” and “Your fortune came from the blood of our ancestors.”

Dressed in black capes, the protesters were drumming and booing as the royal couple’s motorcade pulled up to the hospital. William was whisked into the hospital as Kate stepped out of the car and smiled at the crowd before going in.

The demonstrations were a rare moment of criticism aimed at the young royals, who have for the most part been welcomed with open arms by Canadians eager to catch a glimpse of the glamorous newlyweds.

Protesters were angry that Canada still has ties to the monarchy. Queen Elizabeth II is still the country’s figurative head of state, and new Canadian citizens still pledge allegiance to the Queen during their swearing-in ceremony.