This past weekend marked a significant date for Philadelphia’s Ukrainian community. Pro-Ukraine protestors took to the streets over the weekend to rally against Trump’s policy shift. Then one day, mourners gathered on the University of Pennsylvania campus to remember the lives lost to the war. Temple Update spoke with vigilgoers about their thoughts, three years on since the start of the war.
Blue and yellow flags and candles lit up the University of Pennsylvania as Ukrainians and supporters gathered at the heart of campus near the Benjamin Franklin statue located at the Wharton School of Business
“We are trying to be here to get the voice out to especially the American public right now with everything that going on with the change in our government policy on Ukraine,” says Yuliana Fartachuk, the president of Temple’s Ukrainian Society.
Since taking office, President Trump has shifted away from Pro-Ukraine policies and has been negotiating with Russia all while being critical of Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Yuliana Fartachuk And Victoria Kurylec, Co-Founders Of Temples Ukrainian Society, say they appreciate the support from some American citizens but it’s important to remember the war is ongoing.
“Just because there isn’t coverage doesn’t mean that stuff isn’t happening still,” says Kurylec.
Students mourned Ukraine casualties which have amounted to forty-six thousand soldiers and twelve thousand civilians since 2022. Temple Ukrainians say they are still here regardless of politics
“Ukraine has existed for a very long time even when there was no existing media coverage whatsoever,” says Fartachuk.
“Just remember what side of history do you wanna be on?” says Kurylec.
The girls say there are many ways to support Ukraine even in small gestures.
“To me, it’s still showing up and being empathetic towards what’s happening,” Fartachuk says.
“It might be a lot more simpler than you think, just standing in solidarity,” says Victoria.
Fartachuk and Kurylec say the solution to end the war is clear.
“If Russia withdraws its troops from Ukrainian land there would be no war,” says Fartachuk.
Seeing solidarity within their community even after three years gives them hope of peace.
“It’s not only Ukrainians but also Americans, seeing that community grow together is a great feeling,” says Kurylec.
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