The Honourable Gerry Byrne, Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, is today issuing the enclosed statement recognizing Holodomor Memorial Day.

“It has been over 90 years since the horrific events of the Holodomor, but the effects are still felt today. Between 1932 and 1933, Ukrainians faced systemic genocide at the hands of the Soviet regime. Holodomor translated from Ukrainian means ‘death by hunger’ as millions were starved and executed for speaking their language and trying to maintain their culture and land and to live in peace.

The Holodomor intended to break the Ukrainian people. Yet, they endured, persevered and ultimately won their independence. As Ukraine defends its freedom and borders once again against the illegal Russian invasion, Newfoundland and Labrador is, and will continue to be, there for Ukrainians in our province.

Today we stand with Ukrainians in denouncing the historical atrocities committed against them and reflect in remembrance of the victims, families and communities who suffered as a result of the Holodomor.”

Honourable Gerry Byrne
Minister of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills

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