The University of Alberta has closed the $30,000 endowment fund named after Ukrainian Nazi veteran Yaroslav Hunka and returned the money. .“The university recognizes and regrets the unintended harm caused,” said U of A Interim Provost and Vice President, Academic Verna Yiu in a Wednesday statement. .“On behalf of the university, I want to express our commitment to address antisemitism in any of its manifestations, including the ways in which the Holocaust continues to resonate in the present.” .Following the introduction of Hunka in the House of Commons on Friday, Yiu said U of A began a review of the endowment fund that existed in his name. In 2019, Hunka’s family provided the donation to the Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies at it. .She said its core values “include a commitment to academic integrity and to inclusivity in its research, teaching, and community-building efforts.” .As part of this commitment, Yiu said it is in the process of reviewing its general naming policies and procedures, including those for endowments, to ensure alignment with its values. She understands many community members might require dedicated supports and services. .“If you or someone you support needs assistance, resources, or someone to talk to, please be aware of the services available to our community,” she said. .Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday it is upsetting Hunka was invited to the House of Commons. .READ MORE: WATCH: Trudeau says Ukrainian Nazi incident embarrassing, blasts Russian disinformation.“The speaker has acknowledged his mistake and has apologized,” said Trudeau. .“But this is something that is deeply embarrassing to the Parliament of Canada and by extension to all Canadians.” .Former speaker of the House of Commons Anthony Rota stepped down on Tuesday after honouring Hunka. .READ MORE: UPDATED: Rota resigns as speaker of the house over Ukrainian Nazi scandal.“It has been my greatest honour as a parliamentarian to have been elected by you, my peers, to serve as the speaker of the House of Commons for the 43rd and 44th Parliament,” said Rota. .“I have acted as your humble servant of this house, carrying out the responsibilities of this position to the best of my abilities.”
