BRAMA, November 18, 2002, 5:00 pm ET
Statement from the White House on the occasion of the 69th anniversary of the Famine-Genocide in Ukraine.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
November 15, 2002
I send greetings to those attending the commemoration of the 69th anniversary of the Ukrainian Famine. I join the people of Ukraine and Ukrainian Americans in remembering the victims of this horrific chapter in history.
As we welcome new opportunities and face new challenges, Americans recognize how precious freedom is to everyone. Now better than ever, we recognize the Ukrainian people's heroic struggle nearly 70 years ago, in which millions died because they resisted Stalin's brutal regime. We honor their memory and pledge to never forget their suffering. As we remember their struggle, we also condemn all authoritarian governments who have terrorized their people in the past and continue to do so, thus continuing the fight for freedom and safety of all people.
Today, the United States continues to assist a free and independent Ukraine in constructing its democratic structures, instituting a free-market economy, and full respect for human rights. Such efforts will help insure that no such atrocity, as the Famine of 1932-33, will ever befall the Ukrainian nation again.
Best wishes to all those commemorating this solemn occasion.
George Bush
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