Yazidi genocide: Statement from Premier Kenney
2020-08-03
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"In 2014, the criminals of ISIS unleashed horrific violence and attempted to destroy Iraq’s Yazidi communities.

“Thousands of innocent people died at the terrorists’ hands. Many more watched their families and lives shatter as women and children were raped, sold into slavery and forced to abandon their faith.

“Fortunately, the world has learned from past lessons. A concerted international military campaign stopped ISIS from executing its genocidal designs, averting a river of blood. As Minister of National Defence I was honoured to deploy the Canadian Armed Forces to Iraq and Syria in a mission to protect the innocent from the genocidal deprivations of ISIS. This was followed by compassionate people and organizations coming forward to help the Yazidis begin to heal.

“Even in the midst of other challenges, we can’t forget what the Yazidis suffered. We must remember that evil should not be left to fester in its own darkness. And that the worst in others demands the best in us.”


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