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May 23rd, 2012

Statement by the Leader of the Official Opposition on the 98th Anniversary of the Komagata Maru Tragedy

98 years ago today, the ship Komagata Maru, arrived in Vancouver’s harbour. Due to the discriminatory “continuous journey” regulation, passengers were prevented from disembarking while the ship remained in Burrard Inlet for two months. Passengers were even denied basic necessities, including food and water.

This was one of several incidents in the early 20th century involving Canada’s exclusion laws, designed to keep out immigrants of Asian origin and descent.

The tragedy of the Komagata Maru marks a dark chapter in Canadian history, one that must be honoured by the recognition of the failures of our past, and inspire us to pursue a more equal Canada for future generations.

A formal, official apology on the floor of the House of Commons for thistragedy is long overdue and a necessary part of the healing and reconciliation process.

On Monday, May 28th, New Democrats will vote in support of our motion asking the Prime Minister to finally apologize in the House of Commons for the 1914 Komagata Maru incident. We hope that all members of the House, and Canadians across the country, will support this motion.

The South Asian community shouldn’t have to wait a century for an apology.