Mr. Speaker, in the 2010 Speech from the Throne, our government signalled clear support for a memorial to those who have suffered under Communism. Canada is and will always be a home for those fleeing Communist governments for a better life. This was best said Friday, when the Prime Minister made resonating remarks in Toronto. He stated:
...instead of Communism’s oppression, they found Canadian safety.Instead of Communism’s restrictions, they found Canadian freedom.Instead of Communism’s grim determinism, they found Canadian opportunity.Instead of Communism’s fear, they found Canadian hope.
The struggle of people from around the world—from Poland, from Ukraine, from Cuba, from Venezuela, and from other countries—has produced new Canadians who truly appreciate our freedom. This memorial will remind generations of Canadians that the freedom, peace, and democracy we have and work for hard at home is still a hard-fought battle around the world.