23 August 2013
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark Black Ribbon Day, the National Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Communism and Nazism in Europe:
“Today, we pay tribute to the memory of the victims who suffered or lost their lives through unspeakable acts under Communist and Totalitarian regimes. We also express profound solidarity with the survivors and descendants.
“Canada has long been a beacon of hope and freedom for those escaping tyranny and oppression. Our country continues to be a land of promise for immigrants and refugees seeking peace, security, freedom, justice and respect.
“Black Ribbon Day marks the shameful anniversary of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact between the Communist Soviet Union and Nazi Germany, which directly led to the occupation of numerous European countries and to the slaughter and oppression of their citizens. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting democracy and freedom, and of educating current and future generations about the crimes against humanity that occurred during the darkest chapter of human history.
“As we mark this day in remembrance of the victims of Communist and Nazi tyranny, I encourage all Canadians to be mindful of the importance of the values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law that we hold so dear here in Canada. We must never take them for granted.
