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EDMONTON – “On the 85th anniversary of Black Ribbon Day we pause to look upon the horrific events of the past and renew our resolve to forever honour the victims of tyranny,” said Honourable Nathan Cooper, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta. “People from around the world observe Black Ribbon Day and we stand with them to uphold the importance of freedom from oppression now and for the generations to come.”

On Friday, August 23, 2024, at noon, Speaker Cooper will host a public ceremony in the Alberta Legislature rotunda in honour of Black Ribbon Day.

Following Speaker Cooper’s opening remarks, official remarks will also be delivered by Her Honour, the Honourable Salma Lakhani, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, MLA Justin Wright on behalf of the Premier and Government of Alberta and MLA Sharif Haji on behalf of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition.

Olia Kharabara, a bandurist and singer from Ukraine will provide a live musical presentation.

After remarks from several platform guests, Reverend Julian Bilvi will deliver an invocation followed by a moment of silence.

The public is welcome to attend in person. The ceremony will also be live streamed on assembly.ab.ca and on the Legislative Assembly’s Facebook, X and YouTube channels.

Black Ribbon Day is remembered each year on August 23. The Molotov-Ribbentrop pact between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union was signed 85 years ago on this date in 1939. This led to the occupation of numerous eastern and central European nations and the victimization of millions of people. In 2009 the government of Canada declared August 23 a national day of remembrance.

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Media inquiries:
Christina Steenbergen
Supervisor, Communications Services
Legislative Assembly Office
587.991.1562
christina.steenbergen@assembly.ab.ca