Crowds are expected to gather on the front lawn of BC’s Legislature again this weekend, increasing awareness and standing in solidarity with war-stricken Ukraine.
Another Stand with Ukraine rally is scheduled for Sunday, April 10th at 12:30 p.m. on Belleville Street—and organizers are inviting the public to attend, bearing signs, flags and other symbols of support.
The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) Victoria branch is hosting the rally with the UVic Ukrainian Students’ Society and Victoria Ukrainian Cultural Centre.
“I think we really need the community to continue to stand strong with the Ukrainian community. And right now, we really need to call out the atrocity of Russia’s war crimes and voice that this is not okay,” said UCC Victoria president Devon Sereda Goldie.
She’s touching on recent graphic photos captured in Ukraine, including snapshots from the cities of Bucha and Iprin and other areas recently reclaimed by Ukrainians.
“We’re really wanting to draw attention to that element and how many children have been murdered as a result of everything that’s going on over there,” said Goldie.
In recent weeks, local organizers have held Stand with Ukraine rallies at the Legislature and along Douglas Street, where blue and yellow flooded sidewalks as drivers cruised by.
SEE ALSO:
For Goldie, the community support has been nothing short of amazing.
Since the beginning of the war, she says the local Cultural Centre has also received a massive influx of donations—with over $65,000 raised as of Wednesday.
“We’ve established a Ukrainian Aid and Displaced Persons Assistance Fund. Most of the money being raised will assist Ukrainians arriving here,” explained Goldie.
“Some of the big things that we’re concerned about are childcare costs, pharmaceutical needs, transportation, and rent and food costs, especially as they first arrive.”
Goldie says the funds will provide a financial cushion for those fleeing Ukraine to come to the island, giving them time to heal and recover from their endured trauma.
Weekend market to raise more funds
Attending the rally or donating to the fund isn’t the only way Victorias can show their support this weekend. A Polish and Ukrainian Easter Market is set for Saturday, April 9th.
It’s happening at the White Eagle Polish Association on Dock Street from 12 to 3:30 p.m., and all funds raised from sales will help Ukraine.
“We’re going to sell pierogies, Ukrainian borsch, cabbage rolls, traditional polish poppyseed cakes, cheesecakes, vegan cookies, chocolate truffles, Polish food products, sheepskin products and many other treats,” states an event page.
Polish and Ukrainian Easter Market
- When: Saturday, April 9th from 12 to 3:30 p.m.
- Where: White Eagle Polish Association, 90 Dock Street
Stand With Ukraine Against War Crimes Rally
- When: Sunday, April 10th at 12:30 p.m.
- Where: Lawn of the BC Legislature, Belleville Street
