LEGISLATURE INTRODUCES UKRAINIAN FAMINE AND GENOCIDE (HOLODOMOR) BILL FOR FIRST READING

Deputy Premier and Education Minister Ken Krawetz introduced legislation in the Legislature today that recognizes the people who died during the Ukrainian Famine and Genocide (Holodomor) of 1932-1933.

"Many survivors of this tragic time in history and their descendents live in Saskatchewan and have contributed greatly to our province's cultural, economic, political and educational life," Krawetz said. "This Act will ensure that on the fourth Saturday in November each year, Holodomor will be remembered and recognized."

On April 29, 2008, Premier Brad Wall and Krawetz took part in a special 75th Anniversary ceremony on the steps of the Saskatchewan legislature to honour Saskatchewan's survivors of Holodomor. Holodomor survivor Stefan Hortlatsch, who raised a remembrance flame that is travelling the globe to raise awareness of Holodomor, also attended the event. The ceremony was well-attended with Ed Lysyk, provincial president of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC), Orest Warnyca, Regina president of the UCC and many Saskatchewan MLAs taking part.

Holodomor has also been recognized by the United Nations and the international community.

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For more information, contact:

Rosann Semchuk
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0980
Email: rosann.semchuk@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-529-1601