moved that Bill S-276, An Act respecting Ukrainian Heritage Month, be read the first time.
I rise today to introduce in the House Bill S-276, an act respecting Ukrainian heritage month. This bill has passed the Senate, and if passed here in the House, the bill would declare September of every year Ukrainian heritage month. I would like to thank the member for Etobicoke—Lakeshore for co-sponsoring this bill and I hope members of all parties will support it.
The first Ukrainian immigrants to Canada came on September 7, 1891. Today, there are approximately 1.4 million Canadians of Ukrainian descent. They have made an important impact on our country that spans coast to coast to coast, whether it be our economic, social or political life. At the same time, Canada has welcomed and supported Ukrainian Canadians. Canada was the first country to recognize Ukraine's independence. Canada has recognized the Holodomor as a genocide and has been a global leader in supporting the Ukrainian people in their fight against Russia's brutal invasion. We have said that we will stand with the Ukrainian people until they win.
Ukrainian heritage month would offer a special opportunity for us to celebrate Ukrainian heritage, the role Canada has played in supporting Ukrainian Canadians and the contributions Ukrainian Canadians have made and continue to make to Canada.
Slava Kanadi. Slava Ukraini.
(Motion agreed to and bill read the first time)
