Speeches – 2008

The Honourable Jason Kenney

Presentation of the Museum of the History of Polish Jews

Ottawa, Ontario, June 16, 2008

CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let me begin by saying what a pleasure it is for me to be with you this afternoon.

Allow me to thank the Canada– Poland Parliamentary Friendship Group, the Canada– Israel Interparliamentary Group, B'nai Brith Canada, and the Embassy of Poland for organizing today's presentation.

I appreciate having this opportunity to learn more about a multi-media project that is both fascinating and timely– the Museum of the History of Polish Jews.

By fostering respect for Jewish tradition and culture, this Museum will play an important role in supporting an environment of mutual understanding and acceptance: elements that play such a vital role in ensuring peace and stability.

Jewish people have played a vital role in building Canada since it was founded more than 140 years ago. 

Throughout our history, Jewish people have enriched Canada with their skills, knowledge, and traditions, and our society has benefited enormously.

Our Government considers the diversity rooted in Canada's history to be one of this country's greatest assets. 

Canadians embrace diversity in the realization that they are united by fundamental values of freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. 

I am proud of the Government of Canada's commitment to preserving and enhancing respect for the value and dignity of all Canadian citizens, regardless of their racial or ethnic origins, language, or religious affiliation.

And I believe the tradition of respect for differences and for human dignity that we enjoy as Canadians inspires our commitment to combat all forms of racism, discrimination, and anti-Semitism.

As you may be aware, in 2005, Canada co-sponsored the resolution on Holocaust Remembrance at the UN General Assembly.

Last year, we co-sponsored another UN resolution that condemns any denial of the Holocaust. 

This resolution, which was adopted by consensus, emphasizes that to deny the events of the Holocaust is equivalent to approving genocide in all its forms.

The extermination of millions of Jewish people and others during World War II was a crime against all humanity. 

Our Government believes it is crucial to keep the memory of this devastating period in human history alive in order to learn from it. 

Only by understanding the causes and consequences of the Holocaust can we ensure that it never happens again.

Last June, I had the privilege of going to Prague to present Canada's formal application to start the process for obtaining membership on the Task Force for International Cooperation on Holocaust Education, Remembrance, and Research.

The Task Force supports the development of public engagement initiatives that will provide future generations with opportunities to learn from the horrendous lessons of the Holocaust and in this way help prevent future acts of genocide.

Canada has recently submitted its Baseline Study on Holocaust Education, Remembrance, and Research with a view to advancing to the Liaison country stage of membership, and we are firmly committed to continuing the efforts to become a full member of the Task Force.

Our Government will continue to preserve and promote human rights, here at home and around the world. 

And we welcome initiatives such as the Museum of the History of Polish Jews.  The project offers an incredible opportunity for Canadians to learn about the history and culture of the Polish-Jewish community.

By learning from the lessons of the past, I believe Canadians will be able to build a better future. 

Thank you.