City Ukrainians hold solidarity march
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 24/02/2025 (207 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The Ukrainian community in Brandon and other residents gathered on Saturday afternoon for a solidarity march aimed at expressing support for Ukraine and raising awareness about the ongoing conflict.
Approximately 250 people took part in the event, which marked the third year since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began on Feb. 24, 2022.
The march, organized by Tryzub, a local Ukrainian-Canadian association, began at Brandon University with a flag-raising ceremony and the singing of Ukraine’s national anthem. Participants then walked along 18th Street to Victoria Avenue singing traditional songs before making their way to city hall, where additional speeches and tributes were held.
The march was to emphasize the importance of continued unity and support Ukraine, the group’s spokesperson Julia Krykavska told the Sun.
“This event was mainly just to show that we are still united with our peers in Ukraine,” she said. “We are still united in our efforts to scream for justice for Ukraine.”
Krykavska, who is also a founding member of Tryzub, reflected on the evolution of the annual march, noting that the first year’s event had the largest turnout, with about 400 attendees. “That year, everyone was still in shock, trying to understand what was happening,” she said. “The second year was similar in size to this year’s march, with around 250 people.”
During the event, attendees sang traditional Ukrainian songs and chanted slogans such as “Glory to Ukraine” and “Glory to Heroes.” At city hall, a moment of silence was observed to honour those who have lost their lives defending Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Among the speakers was a Ukrainian veteran who had fought on the front lines and later relocated to Canada after being injured. He expressed gratitude for the donations and support sent to Ukrainian forces, sharing mementos received from soldiers as tokens of appreciation.
Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett participated in the ceremony, acknowledging both the somber nature of the occasion and the resilience of the Ukrainian community.
“I think everyone is disappointed that we have to have this event again for the third year,” he said. “But there’s also an understanding that Ukraine remains on the front line of democracy. The resilience of the Ukrainian people, both here and abroad, is remarkable.”
Krykavska reiterated that despite growing uncertainty over the conflict’s future, the Ukrainian community remains steadfast in its support. “We have to stay united like never before,” she said. “Ukraine has always been there, and it will always be there as a free land, home to patriotic people who will fight for their country.”
The event concluded with another rendition of Ukraine’s national anthem, reinforcing the community’s unwavering commitment to supporting their homeland in its ongoing struggle.
» aodutola@brandonsun.com
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