Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The Legislative Assembly of Alberta will host a public ceremony on August 21 to commemorate Black Ribbon Day and remember victims of Stalinism and Nazism.
The ceremony is scheduled to begin at noon, with MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk delivering opening remarks on behalf of Speaker Nathan Cooper. MLA Brandon Lunty will speak on behalf of the Alberta Premier and provincial government, while MLA Lorne Dach will deliver remarks representing His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition.
Black Ribbon Day is observed every August to honour those who lost their lives or suffered under totalitarian regimes in Europe. The commemoration is associated with the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, signed by Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union on August 23, 1939.
The agreement included a non-aggression arrangement between the two powers and was followed by Germany’s invasion of Poland on September 1, 1939, an event that marked the beginning of the Second World War in Europe.
Canada officially designated August 23 as a National Day of Remembrance in 2009, giving Black Ribbon Day a formal place in the country’s commemorative calendar.
Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Armstrong-Homeniuk said the occasion provides an opportunity to remember people affected by the atrocities committed under Stalinist and Nazi regimes while reinforcing the importance of protecting democratic rights and freedoms.
Members of the public can attend the ceremony in person through the ground-level west entrance of the Alberta Legislature Building. Parking at the site is limited.
Those unable to attend will also be able to follow the proceedings online through the Legislative Assembly of Alberta’s website and its official social media channels, including Facebook, X and YouTube.
The annual observance serves as a reminder of the historical consequences of authoritarianism and the importance of safeguarding human rights and democratic institutions.
