Statement from Ontario PC Leader Patrick Brown Commemorating Black Ribbon Day
“Today, we pay tribute to the victims and survivors of Communist and Nazi tyranny in Europe, and honour the brave men and women who stood up to these evil regimes to defend their values and beliefs.
Black Ribbon Day marks the anniversary of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, signed in 1939 between the former Soviet Union and Nazi Germany, which ultimately led to the repression and slaughter of millions of people.
As many of these victims fled to Canada, they saw Ontario as a beacon of refuge and hope where the values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law are cherished and upheld. These Canadians and their descendants have made and continue to make invaluable contributions to our province and nation.
As we honour the victims and survivors of Communism and Nazism in Europe, we should also remember all those around the world who continue to suffer and fight against the oppression of totalitarian regimes to this day.
We must never forget the evils of Nazism and Communism and what it inflicted upon our world.”