Trudeau and Poilievre Pay Tribute to Victims of Communism and Nazism on Black Ribbon Day

August 23, 2024 TruthUSA

Canadian political leaders are recognizing Black Ribbon Day to commemorate the victims of communism and Nazism in Europe.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasized that the day pays tribute to the millions who endured suffering under Soviet and Nazi rule.

“Today, on Black Ribbon Day, we honor the millions of people who suffered or were mercilessly killed by the Nazi and Soviet regimes in Europe,” he said in an Aug. 23 statement.

Trudeau pointed out that Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union signed the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact 85 years ago, which led to non-aggression between the two countries and their joint takeover of Europe. The aftermath saw immense suffering under totalitarian regimes affecting various communities.

“Many survivors later found refuge in Canada, and to this day, their stories and contributions continue to shape the strong, diverse, and inclusive country we call home,” he added.

Parliament in Canada established Black Ribbon Day in 2009 as a reminder of the importance of upholding human rights, freedom, and democracy worldwide.

Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre also released a statement acknowledging the day.

“Today, we remember the lives lost to these monstrous ideologies and pay tribute to those who fought to restore freedom across Europe. Let their memory remind us to remain vigilant against fascism, communism, and all other forms of socialism,” he stated.

He highlighted the atrocities committed by the “two evil empires” and their collaboration following the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, leading to the persecution of various groups, including the tragedy of the Holocaust.

He further discussed the brutal treatment of individuals under Stalin’s regime, which included forced labor, deportations, famine, torture, and executions, along with the devastating impact of Soviet policies on Ukrainians.

“Seeking to crush any aspirations for liberty and independence, millions of Ukrainians were murdered in the Holodomor, a brutal Soviet genocide resulting from Stalin’s man-made famine,” he emphasized.

Poilievre also mentioned the Katyn massacre where 22,000 people perished, adding to the total of over 20 million deaths during Stalin’s rule.

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