Tamil Canadians Remember and Reflect on 30 Years since anti-Tamil riots

Tamil Canadians Remember and Reflect on 30 Years since anti-Tamil riots

The Canadian Tamil Congress somberly commemorates the 30th year anniversary of the 1983 anti-Tamil riots that sparked an armed conflict between the Tamil peoples and the Government of Sri Lanka in their homeland. Between July 24 and 29 of that year, Tamils were systematically targeted with violence in Colombo and many other parts of the island. During this period, an estimated 3000 Tamils were killed and thousands of Tamil homes and businesses were destroyed. More than one million Tamils have fled Sri Lanka since July 1983 fearing for their safety, while over a million more Tamils have been internally displaced within the island.

“Black July is a poignant anniversary for Tamil Canadians to remember,” said David Poopalapillai, National Spokesperson for the Canadian Tamil Congress. “There is not one single Tamil family living in Canada that hasn’t been affected somehow by the 1983 anti-Tamil riots and its aftermath.” Although four years have passed since the end of armed conflict, Tamils in the NorthEast of Sri Lanka are still suffering immense hardship.

“As we remember the events of the past 30 years, it’s also equally important to recognize that not much has really changed for Tamils currently living in the NorthEast of Sri Lanka,” said Poopalapillai. “While the bombs have stopped dropping and the guns may be silenced, the Tamil people are still living under a militarized occupation in the North and East, continue to fear for their safety and are subjected to persecution because of their ethnicity.” The Canadian Tamil Congress strongly encourages Tamil Canadians to share their stories, experiences and feelings about Black July by making submissions to http://www.blackjuly83.com/SubmitStory.htm and using social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter using hashtag #30YearsBlackJuly.

The Canadian Tamil Congress is also showcasing an exhibit to reflect upon the 30th year anniversary of Black July featuring testimonials of Black July survivors. We encourage you to join us – may we always remember.

Date: Thursday July 25th, 2013

Time: 6:00 pm

Venue: Scarborough Civic Centre Rotunda

150 Borough Drive, Toronto, Ontraio M1P 4N7

For more information please contact: David Poopalapillai at (416) 240-0078 

Published on: 07/22/13 08:35