This memorial will pay tribute to those lost in the Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 tragedy and is Ontario’s first.
The Ontario government is allocating $350,000 to the City of Richmond Hill for the construction of the Flight PS752 Memorial. This memorial honors the victims of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752, which was shot down by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on January 8, 2020, according to a provincial news release.
“Ontario is proud to support this important initiative that honours the victims of Flight PS752 while providing a space for reflection and healing,” said Graham Mc Gregor, minister of citizenship and multiculturalism. “This memorial is a place to remember the lives lost and to recognize the enduring strength of the families who continue to seek justice and accountability.”
The Flight PS752 Memorial will be a joint effort involving municipal, provincial, and federal governments. Construction is scheduled to start in mid-2026 with completion expected in 2027, as stated by the province.
Created by the City of Richmond Hill in collaboration with victims’ families, this memorial will include steel panels and an engraved granite base featuring all names. It will also have accessible pathways and integrated lighting. The site aims to serve as a civic landmark within Richmond Hill’s Unity Park, creating a public area that honors those who were lost.
Announced on the sixth anniversary of this heartbreaking event, this funding shows Ontario’s commitment to stand with Iranian Canadians and all families affected by this tragedy, ensuring it remains remembered.
The incident claimed 176 lives, including 55 Canadian citizens and 30 permanent residents. Forty-four victims were from Richmond Hill-marking it as the largest single-day loss in the city’s history.
“We are deeply grateful for the government of Ontario’s approval of permanent funding for the Flight PS752 memorial in Richmond Hill. Combined with previously announced federal funding and strong support from Richmond Hill’s city council, this allows us to move forward with a dignified space honoring all 176 innocent victims. This memorial will be a place for remembrance, reflection, and collective mourning – ensuring that those who perished on Flight PS752 are never forgotten while we pursue truth and justice within our community,” said Kourosh Doustshenas, spokesperson and chair for government relations at the Association of Families of Flight PS752 Victims.
This will be Ontario’s first dedicated memorial for victims of Flight PS752. The City of Winnipeg had already unveiled Canada’s first permanent public memorial on July 5, 2025.
<p“I’m so thankful for this provincial funding which-when combined with earlier federal funding along with contributions from Richmond Hill-will help our city create a meaningful tribute for those lost in the tragic downing of Flight PS752 in 2020. This will give our community a special space where we can mourn together while ensuring their memories live on,” said David West, mayor of Richmond Hill.
In 2024, Canada officially designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist entity under its Criminal Code.
<p“I extend my deepest gratitude to the Association of Families of Flight PS752 Victims for helping make this memorial possible. Our government stands proudly alongside these families as we honor those we lost six years ago today,” said Michael Parsa, minister responsible for children’s services.
<p“I am truly grateful for our government's backing in remembering victims from Flight PS752. As our community continues its grieving process, this memorial will provide an area where residents can come together in memory of those whose lives were tragically taken away. It stands as a lasting promise that their stories won’t be forgotten,” said Daisy Wai, MPP representing Richmond Hill.
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