Remembering Canada’s first national internment operations

Remembering Canada’s first national internment operations

October 28th is National Internment Commemoration and Education Day, commemorating Canada’s first national internment operations of 1914-1920.

During Canada’s first national internment operations from 1914-1920, Ukrainians and other Europeans were branded ‘enemy aliens’ and imprisoned needlessly in 24 internment camps throughout Canada. Others were subjected to indignities including restrictions on freedom of speech and movement.

These men, women and children suffered terrible injustices because of who they were. Upon their release, to protect their families, many rejected their Ukrainian identity, religion and culture. Today, more than a century later, the effects on the community continue to linger while descendants of these internees still endure the trauma and sense of shame that have been transferred through generations.

We honour the memory of the internees by sharing the story of the internment operations and understanding our responsibility to educate all Canadians about this injustice in the history of our country. May we always remain vigilant in defense of civil liberties and human rights.

For more information on the Canadian World War I Internment Legacy contact the Shevchenko Foundation at [email protected] or toll free at 1-866-524-5314.