VICTORIA – B.C. New Democrat Leader, John Horgan released the following statement on the commemoration of the anniversary of the Holodomor in Ukraine, in honor of the many victims of this horrific tragedy that occurred 83 years ago.

“Today, proud Canadians of Ukrainian descent join people around the world to honour the memories of the millions of innocent women, men and children who died of starvation in this infamous famine between 1932 and 1933. New Democrats stand with those who remember and those who mourn and we condemn this terrible  crime against a certain community and the policies responsible for this terrible event in history.”

Bruce Ralston, the New Democrat spokesperson for trade and multiculturalism said, “We recognize the fourth Saturday in November is remembered as Ukrainian Famine and Genocide – Holodomor Memorial Day. It is a sad and somber day to remember, and steels our resolve to do everything we can to prevent similar crimes from being perpetrated.

“The Ukrainian people have staunchly overcome this sad event in their history and we are proud to see the birth of a free and democratic country once more.

In recognition of Holomodor and in line with other Canadian provinces and countries, the B.C New Democrats introduced a private member’s bill  in the B.C Legislature. The bill sought to proclaim the fourth Saturday in November in each year as Ukrainian Famine and Genocide (Holodomor) Memorial Day to memorialize those who perished as victims of the Holodomor.

Ralston said, “The Ukrainian-Canadian community is an important part of the fabric of Canadian society, and contributes so much to our growth and development as a young country. During Holomodor, we as Canadians can reflect and reaffirm our commitment to maintain human rights and freedom and to live in a just, fair and equitable society.”