“Today is Oxi Day. On October 28, 1940, Greece refused to surrender to fascist forces in World War II. I am honouring Greek courage then, and I am thanking Greek Canadians for all they bring to Canada.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Oxi Day, October 28, a defining moment in modern history and a day of immense pride for the Hellenic Canadian community and for all Hellenes worldwide. On this day in 1940, when faced with an ultimatum from fascist forces to surrender their sovereignty, the people of Greece responded with the resounding word oxi, or “no”. That courage changed the course of World War II and stood as a beacon of resistance, proving that freedom and democracy are worth fighting for and prompting the great Winston Churchill to say that it is not that Greeks fight like heroes; it is that heroes fight like Greeks. Today, the Greek community across Canada shares the same spirit of strength, honour and philotimo, a commitment that has helped build this country. To all Canadians and to all Greeks across this great country and around the world, I say this: [Member spoke in Greek and provided the following translation:] Long live freedom. Long live Greece. Long live Canada. [English]”