In conjunction with the Holodomor Memorial Week, a tribute to those who perished during the Ukraine famine of 1932 and 1933, a commemoration service was held Tuesday in Regina for members of Saskatchewan’s Ukrainian community.

“The senseless Holodomor genocide that took place nearly 90 years ago cannot be forgotten,” said Legislative Secretary Responsible for Saskatchewan-Ukraine Relations, Terry Dennis. “It is important that we take the time each year to honour those who suffered and those who perished in the horrific tragedy.”

A memorial candle was lit and will remain lit throughout the remainder of Holodomor Memorial Week, which started Monday and will continue through Sunday. The lit candle shows unity with those around the world marking the Holodomor genocide. The Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan was the first jurisdiction in North America to recognize the Soviet Union-imposed man-made famine that led to the deaths of up to 10 million people, by passing the Ukrainian Famine and Genocide (Holodomor) Memorial Day Act in 2008. International Holodomor Day is recognized on the fourth Saturday of November, this coming Saturday the 27th in 2021.