TRUDEAU AND THE CANADIAN HOUSE OF COMMONS ISSUES A FORMAL APOLOGY TO CANADIAN ITALIANS

This is the full video of the official apology to Canadian Italians in the House of Commons on May 27, 2021 for their treatment during World War II. All parties were unanimous in supporting the apology and spoke. The clip is about 41 minutes long.

President Rosann Nanci responded on behalf of the Kelowna Canadian Italian Club:

The Kelowna Canadian Italian Club would like to thank the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau for his heartfelt apology to the Italian Canadian population.  Past wrongs are difficult to correct especially after so much time has passed.  The original men who were detained have all passed away, leaving their families to cope with the remaining ramifications of these actions. 

This apology also brings to light the shame felt by the entire Italo-Canadese population which were felt not only by the people of the time, but for subsequent generations who had difficulty holding their heads high.  So many instances of verbal abuse, acts of violence, stereotypes, caricatures, and downright ethnic racism were experienced by the general Italian Canadian population, that it is difficult for many to put into mere words the shame and anger they felt.

Italian Canadians are a proud people who contributed to the growth and security of this county and it is felt that this apology begins the journey back to a place where we can be proud of our accomplishments and continue to offer our contributions to our country. 

For the local side of this story, join us for our Zoom presentation - Between Neighbours - on June 2.
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