Hope a theme as Londoners gather to mark one year of war in Ukraine
Global News
As the world marked one year since the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Friday, Londoners gathered to commemorate the anniversary in a show of support for people affected by the war.
As the world marked one year since the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Friday, Londoners gathered to commemorate the sombre anniversary in a show of support for people affected by the war.
A candlelit vigil was held at city hall Friday evening, with speakers remarking on the tragedy many are dealing with. Following the vigil, many leaders in the political and Ukrainian spheres made their way to the Jet Aircraft Museum to witness the unveiling of a new Ukrainian-themed artifact.
At city hall, many Londoners and Ukrainians braved the cold temperatures and chilly wind to show solidarity with the eastern European nation under attack since Feb. 24, 2022.
Ola Nowosad, a retired teacher and one of the organizers of the vigil with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC), remarked to those in attendance that while the lives lost will never be forgotten, it is vital to recognize the work ongoing by those fighting for Ukraine.
“Today, we gather to acknowledge 365 days of resistance,” said Nowosad.
The vigil was one of over 40 held across Canada on Friday as the start of the war was marked.
Along with Nowosad, other speakers included Mayor Josh Morgan, Ukrainian Marta Kosar and president of the local UCC Daria Hryckiw.
Speaking first, Kosar, who came to London last April to escape the war in her home country, read from a prayer written by a local reverend. During her remarks, Kosar spoke of how valuable a collective show of support is for people still in Ukraine and how the acceptance of people fleeing the war is appreciated.