Statement on World Refugee Day 2018

June 19, 2018
(OTTAWA) –
“The United Nations reports that of the 65 million people who have been forcibly displaced worldwide, 22.5 million are now refugees — more than the combined populations of Quebec and Ontario,” said Elizabeth May (MP, Saanich-Gulf Islands). “Whether it is caused by conflict, natural disasters or the accelerating impacts of climate change, the world has not seen this degree of displacement since World War II. These are troubling signs.”

“Historically, Canada has made important contributions in international aid and in providing a home for refugees. But the real test is now before us. With the rise in xenophobic sentiment worldwide and the world’s wealthiest democracy now tearing children away from their asylum-seeking parents in a deportation blitz, it is incumbent upon Canada to play a positive role and provide moral leadership in the refugee crisis. How we handle the border issue at Lacolle, among other entry points for refugees, will determine whether we pass the test.”