The following statement was issued by Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Bill Hogan in observance of International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Jan. 27:
I am deeply troubled by the recent rise of antisemitism around the world and in Canada. Antisemitism has no place in our society, including in our schools.
As we mark International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Saturday, I encourage all New Brunswickers to take time to reflect on what is truly one of the darkest chapters of human history.
The atrocities committed by Adolf Hitler's Nazi regime are horrific and a stark reminder of the consequences of allowing and encouraging hatred, prejudice and discrimination.
An important step in creating a province that is respectful and inclusive is by educating our students. That is why we have taken - and will continue taking - steps to ensure our students have opportunities to learn about the Holocaust.
Part of this work has included partnering with the Atlantic Canada Holocaust Education Foundation to develop tools and resources to create more robust and meaningful learning experiences for New Brunswick students. This partnership is making a significant difference in our schools, and I am grateful to the foundation for its dedication to providing our students with access to respectful, safe and accurate resources about the Holocaust.
When we learn about the Holocaust, we are not just studying something that happened in history; we are equipping ourselves with the knowledge and understanding we need to help build a better future. When we promote diversity, we create an environment where everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, can live without fear of discrimination.
As we continue to build a better education system, we must respect one another and remember that when we embrace our differences, we are stronger together.
