Canadian lawmakers back recognition of Hazara genocide

Several members of Canada’s Parliament and senators have backed efforts to recognise the Hazara genocide during a memorial ceremony for the victims of the genocide. The event was organised at the Canadian Parliament at the initiative of the Hazara Humanitarian Services of Canada (CHHS).

Hundreds of people attended the programme, including Canadian members of Parliament and senators, representatives of political parties, writers, and social and civil activists. The organisers of the gathering stressed the need to formally record this event in the public memory.

Participants also called for the Hazara genocide during the rule of Abdul Rahman Khan to be recognised and for 25 September to be registered in Canada’s calendar as a day of remembrance for the victims of the event.

On the sidelines of the ceremony, a historical documentary animation about the killing and repression of Hazaras was screened. An exhibition of Hazara cultural and historical works, including Siraj al-Tawarikh, was also held for attendees.

The Hazara Humanitarian Services of Canada is among the organisations active in pursuing issues related to the Hazara community in Canada. Siraj al-Tawarikh is also considered one of the well-known historical sources on the period of Abdul Rahman Khan and the events of that time.