Unity Park will be the site of the PS752 Memorial, honoring the 176 victims of Flight PS752.
Richmond Hill is improving Unity Park, which will also host the PS752 Memorial dedicated to remembering the 176 victims of Flight PS752.
The memorial at 63 Pugsley Ave. will be created in collaboration with the families of those lost, who will have their names inscribed on it.
This tragic event has profoundly impacted the community and represents Richmond Hill’s most significant single-day loss abroad, according to a city news release. Unity Park was chosen for its theme of unity.
“The park will be a place for reflection and remembrance, bringing the community together to honor the victims,” said the city.
“The City of Richmond Hill will always remember this tragedy. This memorial shows our city’s strong support for Iranian Canadians and those who lost family members on that heartbreaking day. I hope it brings peace and comfort as a space for reflection,” stated Mayor David West.
The funding for constructing the PS752 Memorial includes contributions from different levels of government, with up to $400,000 from the federal government and $350,000 from Ontario’s government.
“Infrastructure isn’t just about building physical spaces; it’s about creating areas that reflect our shared values and collective memory. This memorial will honor those lost on Flight PS752, aid in healing for families and friends, and stand as a lasting symbol of remembrance, resilience, and unity in Richmond Hill,” said Gregor Robertson, minister of Housing and Infrastructure as well as Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada.
“The renewal of Unity Park will create a meaningful gathering spot that also serves as a space for remembrance-where families can come together to honor, reflect, and connect. The PS752 Memorial will stand as a permanent tribute so that we remember those we lost as part of Richmond Hill’s history,” remarked Graham Mc Gregor, Ontario’s minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism.
“Breaking ground on the Flight PS752 Memorial is an important step in ensuring that we remember the 176 innocent lives taken too soon by this terrible act. This memorial acknowledges the deep sorrow felt by their loved ones while also recognizing their strength in seeking justice,” expressed Michael Parsa, MPP Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill.
When finished-expected by December-the park will include new play equipment with safe surfacing, enhancements to existing pathways, new seating areas, pedestrian lighting upgrades, refreshed gardens along with new gazebo and shade structures.
“After years of teamwork among various organizations like the Association of Families of Flight PS752 Victims, City Hall in Richmond Hill along with both provincial and federal governments-this memorial dedicated to passengers and crew members has finally moved into construction. The tragedy that occurred over Tehran on January 8th 2020 took away 176 lives including an unborn child-it won’t ever be forgotten. This memorial ensures future generations know innocent lives were lost due to actions taken by Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps alongside Iran’s rulers. We shall never forget nor forgive,” said Dr. Hamed Esmaeilion from the Association of Families of Flight PS752 Victims.
For further details about Unity Park visit Richmond Hill. ca/Parks Projects.
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