News Summary
Grand Rapids is hosting a rally on February 22 to support Ukraine as it marks three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion. Organized by the Ukrainian Society of Michigan, the event will include a solidarity walk and a panel discussion aimed at fostering global solidarity and discussing rebuilding efforts for Ukraine. This event is an opportunity for the community to come together in support of democracy and freedom.
Grand Rapids Rallies for Ukraine’s Fight Against Invasion
In a moving display of support and unity, Grand Rapids is set to host a rally dedicated to standing with Ukraine as it marks the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. This heartfelt event, organized by the Ukrainian Society of Michigan alongside the Grand Rapids Sister Cities International Dnipro Committee, is taking place on Saturday, February 22, and it promises to be a day filled with solidarity, education, and hope.
Come Together to Show Support
Starting at 2 p.m., residents and allies are invited to join a solidarity walk that kicks off at Veterans Memorial Park, located at 101 Fulton St. E. This walk is a chance for participants to come together, feel the power of community, and show that they stand firmly behind Ukraine during this challenging time.
The march will wind its way through downtown, culminating at the Grand Rapids Public Library’s main branch at 111 Library St NE. It’s a complete journey that blends both action and message; a show of strength and resolve that can be felt all the way from Michigan to Eastern Europe.
Engaging Conversations to Follow
Once the walk concludes, the event will transition into an engaging panel discussion scheduled for 3 p.m., centered around the theme “YOU AS ME: How do we rebuild together those things that unite us?”. This important discussion will feature six knowledgeable speakers who will delve into topics surrounding rebuilding Ukraine, fostering global solidarity, and celebrating cultural resilience.
Best of all, this enlightening discussion is completely free to attend, encouraging everyone to be part of the dialogue that shapes our understanding of this ongoing conflict and its broader implications.
Ongoing Support and Global Efforts
The rally comes during a crucial time, highlighted by recent meetings between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and significant U.S. officials, including key discussions intended to bolster support for Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts. Citizens in the United States have the opportunity to reflect on the connections their own country shares with Ukraine, reinforcing ties built through shared values of democracy and freedom.
Just days before the rally, President Zelensky met with Keith Kellogg, the U.S. chief envoy to Ukraine, on February 20, showcasing the ongoing commitment to addressing the crisis. Additionally, on February 22, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in talks with Russian diplomats, reiterating the international community’s stance on the conflict and its resolution.
Join in the Movement
Anna Kovalenko, the executive director and co-founder of the Ukrainian Society of Michigan, is warmly inviting everyone to participate. Whether you are Ukrainian or simply a friend to the cause, this rally is an opportunity to take a stand for justice and to support the enduring spirit of the Ukrainian people.
The event not only aims to unite experts, community leaders, and supporters but also focuses on ensuring that Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts and the global solidarity are at the forefront of discussions as we mark this somber anniversary.
In Grand Rapids, the community is coming together, and every voice matters. So gather your friends, family, and anyone willing to join this beautiful act of solidarity, and make your way to the rally this February 22. Let’s show the world that we care!
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Additional Resources
- MLive: Rally for Ukraine Planned for Downtown Grand Rapids
- Wood TV: Gala Will Fund Medical Care for Ukrainian Soldiers
- Big Rapids News: Ukrainians Rally Around Their President
- JSONline: Tim Walz Visits a Ukrainian Bakery
- Free Press: Trump Rallies in Michigan
- Wikipedia: Ukrainian War
- Google Search: Ukraine conflict
- Google Scholar: Ukraine rebuilding efforts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ukraine
- Google News: Ukraine rally
