Canada: Alberta MLA Rod Loyola remembers the November 1984 Sikh genocide. According to a written release MLA Rod Loyola, Member for Edmonton-Ellerslie, rose in the Legislative Assembly on November 05 to mark the 31st anniversary of the November 1984 Sikh Genocide in which Sikh children, women, and men were targeted and killed in an organized campaign across India. MLA Loyola recognized those who provided refuge and assistance to their Sikh neighbours during these horrific events while calling for the truth of the events to be brought to light and for those guilty to be brought to justice.
MLA Loyola emphasized the importance of rehabilitation and support for the affected families, alongside examination of the role of the police and the use of state resources in the attacks. He noted that this is particularly important in light of the increasing tensions in Punjab today, following the deaths of two peaceful protestors, allegedly at the hands of security forces.
MLA Loyola concluded that “the struggle to recognize the dignity of the human person is the ultimate objective of observing the human rights of all. This government recognizes this fact both here at home and abroad. Justice and accountability are the obligations of a democratic state to its citizens. Let us be conscious that remembrance is the tie that binds us to our past as it guides us for the challenge of the future.”
Watch video of the statement read out by Rod Loyola in Alberta assembly: