photo – Office of the Governor General
Commemorations begin of anniversary of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine
February 22, 2023. OTTAWA, ON. Alexandra Chyczij, National President of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC), concluded a two-day visit to Ottawa on February 21. The commemoration of the first anniversary of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine began in the nation’s capital on February 20.
“As Russia’s full-scale genocidal war against Ukraine enters its second year, it is vital that we all continue to stand with the Ukrainian people and offer all support we can until Ukraine is victorious,” stated Chyczij. “Our community is grateful for the unity that all Canadians are demonstrating in support of Ukraine and the Ukrainian peoples’ right to live free in their own land.”
On February 20, the UCC was honoured to partner with the Embassy of Ukraine in Canada, the Friends of Ukraine Diplomatic Group, and other partner organizations, in a Stand With Ukraine solidarity event, at which the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, addressed the large assembled crowd.
In her poignant remarks, Governor General Simon stated, “As the attacks continue, the humanitarian crisis deepens. We need to take every opportunity to support Ukraine. We need to help people find safety and moments of normalcy amidst the chaos. We need to support Ukrainians as they rebuild their country, even as they fight for their country’s future.”
The Governor General’s full remarks are available here:
Ceremony to mark the one year since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine
Following the solidarity rally, at which a 30 metre flag of Ukraine was unfurled, Chyczij attended an event marking the Independence Day of Estonia and a year of resilience and bravery of Ukraine, at Café Ukraine, a Ukrainian community centre established to welcome Ukrainians displaced by Russia’s genocidal war.
On February 21, Chyczij and UCC National Secretary Cassian Soltykewych met with the Honourable Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Official Opposition. Chyczij expressed the Ukrainian Canadian community’s gratitude to the Opposition for their strong support of Ukraine under Mr. Poilievre’s leadership, and briefed Mr. Poilievre on the community’s policy priorities.
Chyczij and UCC CEO Ihor Michalchyshyn appeared on CBC’s Power and Politics with David Cochrane, to discuss Canada’s support for Ukraine and the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine.
On February 24, on the first anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, over 40 solidarity vigils and events will be held across Canada. To find the event in your community, please click below
