GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Different demonstrations were held across the state this weekend to mark the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
People in Madison and Milwaukee held marches for an end to the violence.
In Green Bay, they were praying for peace: Wisconsin Ukrainians held a vigil at Saint Matthew’s Orthodox Church to spread awareness for the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
“We know that we need to be together, as Ukrainians, as the community,” said Oksana Kobzar, a Wisconsin Ukrainians Board Member.
The ceremony served to grow hope for the end of the war.
“They fight for their land. They fight for their mothers, kids, wives, brothers…for their own country that has the right to exist,” added Kobzar.
Attendees showed solidarity for those who have suffered the loss of a friend or relative.
They lit candles in remembrance of the victims.
“It’s a small country with very resilient, strong people, but they need our support both financial and in prayer,” said Yulia Barstow, another Wisconsin Ukrainians Board Member.
The first vigil the organization held was in 2014, also in Saint Matthew’s Church.
“It’s a good place to get united and get all together as Ukrainians, as a Ukrainian community in Green Bay,” said Yevgen Melnykov, a Wisconsin Ukrainians Volunteer.
Wisconsin Ukrainians held the vigil today to show their support for the marches in Milwaukee and Madison.
Barstow has lived in the United States for 23 years now but her entire family and many of her friends are still in Ukraine.
“I talk to them daily and they’re always so appreciative that we help with humanitarian aid and just thinking about them and praying for them,” she added.
The nonprofit has also donated military and medical supplies to those defending the Ukrainian homeland.
It has raised more than $540,000 for Ukraine.
“We cannot lose this war because we are protecting the world. We are protecting democracy. We are protecting freedom,” said Kobzar.
All community members were invited to show support at the vigil.
The non-profit also held a social hour after the ceremony.
“I think the big celebration will be when the victory comes,” added Kobzar.
Board members say Wisconsin Ukrainians has held 69 fundraising events, concerts, and benefits in the last nine months.
The group plans to add more vigils in the future.
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