Hundreds of anti-war supporters packed Market Square on Sunday to show their support for the people of Ukraine, as the siege by Russia continues in the Ukrainian homeland.
Many were dressed in blue and yellow - the same colours of the Ukrainian flag - to support the people of Ukraine.
The rally was organized by the Holy Protection of the Mother of God Ukrainian Catholic Church on York Road.
Father Andrij Figol, pastor of Holy Protection of the Mother of God Ukrainian Catholic Church on York Road, lead the procession, giving a speech and praying for the people of Ukraine.
“Leaders of many different faith traditions in Ukraine came in solidarity and in unity to pray in the capital city of Kyiv to ask God for fortitude, courage and steadfastness upon the people of Ukraine as they protect their sovereignty, their self-determination, their land, their families in the face of Putin’s fascist terrorism,” said Figol.
Above the crowds, Ukrainian flags waved, and signs were held up which outlined the opinions of many people, many of whom equated Putin to a fascist terrorist.
In an effort to help the people of Ukraine and the many refugees that have fled their homeland, the church held a monetary fundraiser after the church stopped item donations due to overwhelming support from the community.
Following the speeches, a line snaked through Market Square as people took their wallets out to donate cash on hand.
The money will be donated to the Ukrainian cause to support the Ukrainian people's fight against the Russian invaders.
“The world has seen and remembers what fascist terrorism causes and has pledged that never again shall we let this happen,” said Figol. “We are, in the 21st century, a time when we thought war was far behind us, we’re all pulled into this chaos and suffering. It threatens the lives of our friends and families in Ukraine.”
Guelph mayor Cam Guthrie helped Holy Protection of the Mother of God Ukrainian Catholic Church on York Road organize the rally.
“The Ukrainian community is overwhelmed and just joyed to see how much we have to give back,” said Guthrie.
Speaking to the crowd, Guthrie shared stories he has heard firsthand of Guelphties with Ukrainian ties, some of whom spoke to the family they have in Ukraine.
“This show of solidarity today is so important, and I leave you with two things. We are a community that always welcomes people, and this city is ready to take refugees yesterday,” said Guthrie.
On March 12 another rally in support for the people of Ukraine is being planned, which will consist of a meeting at Market Square at 1:00 p.m. with a march through Guelph to Fixed Gear Brewing.
