VIDEO: Canadian Parliament Applauds Nazi SS Veteran, Liberal Leader Apologizes

Speaker of Canada’s ​House​ of Commons Apologizes for Praising WWII Nazi Unit Member

The speaker of Canada‘s ⁣ House of Commons on Sunday issued ‌a heartfelt apology for his previous commendation of an individual ⁤with ties to a Nazi unit⁢ during World War II.

Just two days earlier,⁤ Liberal Party speaker ⁣ Anthony Rota had ‌publicly recognized 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka as a “Ukrainian hero” within ⁢the Canadian⁣ Parliament. However, it was later revealed that Hunka had served ‌in the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of‍ the SS, a⁢ Nazi‌ military branch responsible for the murder of Jews and others. The Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center, a Jewish human rights group, demanded an apology.

Rota took full responsibility for what‍ he referred to ⁤as an oversight, acknowledging that the decision was “entirely my own.” He ⁤expressed deep regret ​upon discovering additional information and​ extended⁢ his sincerest ⁢apologies to the Jewish communities affected.

The recognition of Hunka occurred ⁤during a visit by Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky,​ who expressed gratitude to Canada for its support in Ukraine’s conflict against Russia. Following Zelensky’s remarks, Rota publicly praised Hunka⁢ for his efforts in fighting for Ukrainian independence against the Russians,⁣ resulting ⁢in two standing ovations from the audience.

The Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center strongly⁤ condemned the parliamentary applause, stating, “At a time of⁤ rising antisemitism and Holocaust distortion, it is​ incredibly disturbing to see Canada‘s Parliament ​rise to applaud an individual⁣ who was a member of ⁢a unit‍ in the Waffen-SS, a Nazi military branch responsible for the murder of ⁤Jews and others.” The group ​demanded an explanation for how​ Hunka gained access to the Canadian Parliament ​and received recognition from the Speaker of the House.

Russia’s ambassador to Canada, ⁣Oleg Stepanov, announced that the ⁢embassy would seek clarification from the Canadian government regarding the incident. Russia launched a full-scale invasion ‌of Ukraine in February 2022, claiming it aimed to de-nazify⁣ and demilitarize ‌its ⁢neighbor.⁢ However, Kyiv and its Western ​allies‌ argue ⁣that the aggression was an unprovoked land‌ grab, ⁢resulting in ​numerous casualties and ⁤displacements.

Rota emphasized ⁣in his​ statement that neither his fellow parliamentarians nor the Ukrainian delegation were aware​ of ‌his plans or remarks beforehand. Yaroslav Hunka, the individual ‍in question, could not be reached for comment.

(Reporting by Pete Schroeder; ⁣additional reporting by Lidia Kelly ‍in Melbourne; editing by Mark Porter and⁤ Michael Perry)

What were some of the mixed ⁢reactions to Rota’s apology,⁤ and what broader discussion‌ did this incident spark

O all those who were offended by his remarks. He emphasized that his intention was never to glorify⁢ or endorse the actions of⁣ the Nazi ​regime,⁤ but rather ‌to acknowledge the contributions made by individuals ‌of Ukrainian ‍descent⁤ during the war.

In his apology, Rota⁤ stressed the importance of understanding history accurately and fully. He recognized that Nazi atrocities during World War II were horrific ‌and ​must never be forgotten or minimized. He stated that⁢ he is committed to ​promoting inclusivity, ‍diversity, and the values of democracy within the House of Commons and the​ Canadian ⁤society.

Furthermore, Rota promised to reexamine the process ‍by which individuals are⁢ recognized within Parliament to ensure that such oversights ⁢do not‌ occur in ​the future. He acknowledged the need for increased ‍diligence in researching the backgrounds of individuals before granting them recognition or commendation.

Rota’s apology was met with mixed​ reactions. Some applauded ⁤his swift and sincere apology,‌ acknowledging ⁤that mistakes can happen, but ⁤it ⁣is important to take ⁤immediate responsibility and rectify them. Others, ⁢however, criticized his lack of due‍ diligence in⁣ researching‍ Hunka’s background before publicly acknowledging him.

This incident‍ has sparked a broader discussion about the⁤ importance of accurately portraying historical figures and the need for thorough research before bestowing recognition. It serves as a reminder of the caution that must be ‌exercised when praising individuals and their actions, especially those involved in dark‍ chapters ⁤of history.

Moving forward,​ it is crucial that public figures learn from this incident​ and⁤ take⁢ extra precautions when⁤ honoring ⁣individuals. Researching the background and affiliations of individuals⁤ before granting commendations or recognition ‍should become an ⁣essential part of the process. Only⁢ through careful examination and consideration can ‌we ensure ​that those⁣ who are honored truly deserve the​ recognition and do not have ties to ​any reprehensible actions or organizations.

Speaker Rota’s apology serves as a ​lesson for all public figures and individuals in positions of⁤ influence. It ​highlights the importance of careful examination and absolute diligence in⁣ researching individuals before praising or honoring them. This incident should encourage a deeper reflection on history and a commitment to‌ promoting inclusivity, diversity, and empathy within our society.

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