Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition and the Conservative Party of Canada, released the following statement on Oxi Day:
“In the early hours of October 28, 1940, the future of Greece came down to a single word. A fascist ultimatum was delivered to the Greek government: stand aside and allow the Italians to occupy, or face war.
“Their answer was clear: no.
“Winston Churchill famously declared that ‘We will not say that Greeks fight like heroes, but that heroes fight like Greeks.’
“Today, we remember why.
“That spirit did not end in 1940; it travelled with generations of Hellenics who built new lives in Canada. From coast to coast, Canadians of Greek heritage open businesses, build churches, raise families and strengthen communities across the land.
“On Oxi Day, we honour those who wouldn’t back down in the face of tyranny, a timeless example that freedom is never free – a lesson worth carrying forward.
“I want to wish all those celebrating a happy Oxi Day!”