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Support for Ukraine displayed at event outside Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Vernon in February 2022. A vigil to mark one year since the war started will be held outside Vernon City Hall at 5 p.m. today. (file photo/Vernon Matters)
By Pete McIntyre
Stand for Ukraine

One year later: Vernon vigil marks anniversary of Russian invasion of Ukraine

Feb 24, 2023 | 5:00 AM

Vernon will be one of many Canadian cities holding events today to mark one year since the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

A vigil will be held outside Vernon City Hall at 5 p.m.

It’s being put on by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress Thompson Okanagan.

“We invite all to join our Ukrainian community to this candlelit vigil. Bring Ukrainian flags and candles,” Andrea Malysh, president of the local congress, said.

“We will have a short ceremony of speeches along with the singing of the Ukrainian National Anthem and a moment of silence,” Malysh added.

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Candles will be available for donations to the Canada-Ukraine Foundation Humanitarian Aide for Ukraine Fund.

(Image credit: Ukrainian Canadian Congress)

It is estimated one third of Ukraine’s 41 million people have been displaced by the war, with tens of thousands killed or wounded. Ukraine’s infrastructure and economy have also been left in shambles.

“For the past year, the heroic Ukrainian Armed Forces and the Ukrainian people have stood united in defence of freedom in Europe in the face of Russia’s genocidal onslaught. The courage and determination of the Ukrainian people inspire the world,” Alexandra Chyczij, National President of the UCC, said.

“To mark 365 days of Ukraine’s resistance against Russia’s war, please join us on February 24 to show that all Canadians Stand With Ukraine.”

More than 100,000 Ukrainians have sought refuge in Canada from the war, with about 11,000 of those now living in British Columbia.

by Pete McIntyre
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