For Immediate Release | Check Against Delivery
November 28th, 2015
Mayor Crombie’s Remarks Marking Holodomor Memorial Day
The following are remarks delivered by Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie to mark Holodomor Memorial Day. Mayor Crombie attended services at Dormition of the Mother of God (St. Mary’s) Ukrainian Catholic Church in Mississauga.
“On behalf of the City of Mississauga and Members of Council, I join with our City’s Ukrainian community to remember and mark Holodomor Memorial Day – a most solemn day of remembrance.
“Mississauga is blessed to be home to such an active, engaged and compassionate Ukrainian community.
“At the heart of this community is St Mary’s Dormition Ukrainian Catholic Church, which opens its doors to families and residents to worship, under the spiritual leadership of the Rt. Rev. Roman Pankiw.
“I would like to thank the members and leaders of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress – Toronto Branch, for bringing all communities together to mourn the millions innocent men, women and children who lost their lives during the Holodomor.
“From 1932 to 1933 up to ten million Ukrainians were deliberately starved to death by the brutal Soviet regime.
“Grains and food were forcibly seized by the Soviets, intended to break the spirits, pride and determination of Ukrainians.
“The borders were shut. In little more than a year, one-quarter of the population perished.
“The crimes of genocide are known as the Holodomor.
“During November, communities around the world remember and reflect on these crimes against humanity.
“Today, we pause and show gratitude to leaders in all levels of government who have helped ensure the Holodomor is recognized as genocide.
“It is incumbent upon all of us to teach current and future generations about what has taken place, and to ensure we do our part to stand up against injustices happening around the world.
“As we look toward the hope and promise of 2016 – let us all wish peace and goodwill to communities and families in the Ukraine, and throughout the world, who continue to face oppression.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with them, and with the families who continue to mourn the loss of innocent lives, taken during the Holodomor.”
-30-