The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day):

“Beginning at sundown tonight, Jewish communities and others in Canada and around the world will observe Yom HaShoah – Holocaust Memorial Day – to honour the lives of the six million Jews who were systematically murdered by the Nazis during the Holocaust.

“Yom HaShoah reminds us of our eternal responsibility to preserve the memories of those we lost, share the stories of survivors, and keep alive the bitter lessons of the Holocaust.

“Tonight and tomorrow, friends and families will gather to recite prayers and light memorial candles. On the streets of Israel, sirens will sound as an entire nation pauses to remember, while the Mourner’s Kaddish will echo through synagogues around the world.

“These moments of reflection and remembrance are vital. We cannot let the horrors of the Holocaust fade, and forget the dangers of anti-Semitism, indifference, and silence. Every generation must know what happened, and restate the values we hold dear, to bring meaning to the solemn vow, ‘Never again.’

“These are not just words but a call to action: A call to always speak out against racism, hate, and bigotry in all its forms. And to stand on guard against a resurgence of anti-Semitism, xenophobia, and prejudice.

“On behalf of Sophie and our family, I extend my thoughts and prayers to all those observing Yom HaShoah.”