President's statement on Holodomor (11/26/06)

President's statement on Holodomor

Below is the full text of the message issued by President George W. Bush on the occasion of the 73rd anniversary of the Famine-Genocide in Ukraine. The statement was read on Saturday, November 18, at the memorial gathering held at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York.

Seventy-three years ago, the world witnessed horrific human suffering and deprivation in Ukraine when millions died as the result of Soviet crop seizures. On this solemn anniversary, I join Americans and people everywhere in remembering the victims of this atrocity.

Today, Ukraine has taken important steps forward to embrace democracy and improve the lives of its people. As Ukrainians take time during this observance to reflect on darker days, I encourage them also to celebrate their recent progress and look to their promising future with confidence. The democratic process in Ukraine is a powerful example that nations grow to strength not through conquest or tyranny, but by respecting the rights of citizens and allowing the talents and gifts of people to flourish.

The United States is prepared to stand with the citizens of a free Ukraine and to call their nation a friend. In October, I signed legislation authorizing a memorial in Washington, D.C., to honor the victims of the man-made famine that took place in Ukraine during 1932 and 1933. A memorial in the American capital will stand as a tribute to those who suffered from communist oppression and a reminder that the love of freedom outlasts the will of tyranny.

This anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on a sad chapter in human history and honor the lives lost to the injustice of a totalitarian regime. Let us also celebrate the cause of liberty and resolve anew to claim a future of hope and dignity for all.

May God bless you.

George W. Bush

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