A monument dedicated to the victims and survivors of the Tamil genocide during the final phase of the armed conflict in Sri Lanka was inaugurated on May 10th in Brampton, Ontario. Thousands gathered at Chinguacousy Park for the unveiling, marking a significant moment for the Tamil community in Canada.
The destruction of the Mullivaikkal memorial at Jaffna University in Sri Lanka spurred the creation of the memorial. The Brampton Tamil Association and the Brampton Tamil Seniors Association spearheaded the project, receiving backing from city leaders.
The inauguration ceremony commenced with the lighting of a lamp in remembrance of the genocide victims, performed by Tamil activists and politicians, including Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and MPP Vijay Thanigasalam.
The monument’s design features a book symbolizing the history of the Tamil genocide and a map of Tamil Eelam representing the ancestral homeland. Nine panels detail the acts of genocide perpetrated against Tamils by Sri Lanka since 1948.
Rugsha Sivanandan, Executive Director of the National Council of Canadian Tamils (NCCT), expressed gratitude to Brampton Council for their “unanimous support.” Mayor Patrick Brown recounted the obstacles faced during the monument’s construction, including a disruption by Sinhala protesters in August 2024. Brown firmly stated, “The genocide deniers – you’re not welcome in Brampton, you’re not welcome in Canada, go back to Colombo.” He emphasized the extent of the Tamil genocide and condemned attempts to discredit Tamil voices seeking truth and justice.
Ranjan Sriranjan, Chair of the NCCT, highlighted the monument’s role as a place for Tamil Canadians to remember victims and educate others. MPP Vijay Thanigasalam stressed that the monument ensures this history will not be erased, recalling the events of May 2009 and the unaccounted-for individuals.
MP Juanita Nathan acknowledged the profound impact of the genocide’s memory on the Tamil community. Minister of Transportation Prabmeet Sarkaria affirmed his support, recognizing the contributions of Tamil Canadians. Minister for Seniors and Accessibility Raymond Cho honored the victims and survivors. Toronto City Councillor Parthi Kandavel described the monument as a “temple” for those who lost their lives for Tamil identity and freedom. Toronto District School Board Trustee Anu Sriskandarajah hoped the monument would educate future generations.
In her closing remarks, Sivanandan reiterated the ongoing pursuit of Tamil self-determination, concluding the ceremony with the song ‘Nampungal Tamil Eelam Naalai Pirakkum’ (Believe it, Tamil Eelam will be born).
