Stamford Community Rallies In Support Of Ukraine

STAMFORD, CT — The colors of azure blue and golden yellow could be seen in front of the Stamford Government Center on Tuesday evening, as the community gathered to rally in support of Ukraine following Russia's recent invasion.

The message of the rally was simple, yet powerful: We are Ukrainian.

Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons was joined by Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz and other local elected officials, who spoke about the ongoing war and what Stamford residents can do to help.

"Our city has a rich and diverse history of welcoming immigrants from around the world, and we're so proud of our Ukrainian community here in Stamford, which is a vibrant and cherished part of our community," Simmons said. "Today and every day, we must stand united with the people of Ukraine as they face unjustified and illegal war of aggression."

Simmons urged the community to offer up more than prayers. She said donations can be made to Americares and the Red Cross, among other vetted organizations.

"We will continue to partner with community and religious leaders and share more information on ways you can help here and abroad," she said.

Bysiewicz called Russia's attack "unprovoked, illegal and unjustified." She noted that she and Gov. Ned Lamont continue to be supportive of President Joe Biden and allies around the world who have quickly leveled sanctions against President Vladimir Putin and those who support him.

Bysiewicz said her family members in Poland are watching Ukrainian refugees stream into the country.

"The Polish people are also people who understand how terrible Soviet domination is because they lived it," Bysiewicz said. "I am here to stand with you, to stand with democracy, to stand for freedom, to stand for liberty and to stand for human rights."

Along with donating, Bysiewicz urged residents to boycott Russian goods to send a message to Putin.

"Let's send our prayers and let's show Mr. Putin that liberty, democracy and human rights are always more powerful than fear and oppression," she said.

Ulyana Yosypiv, who is Ukrainian and a Stamford resident, spoke about Russia's history with Ukraine.

"For nearly 1,000 years, The Russian government has been displacing and murdering the Ukrainian people to erase our history and our exisgtence in the world," she said.

.Sharon Lewis, director of the United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien, called the war "an abomination to humanity." She said she's been in awre of the bravery of the Ukrainian people, who have stayed behind to defend their country.

The Rev. Ihor Midzak of Saint Vladimir’s Cathedral spoke about the power prayer.

"Today, this gathering shows support to our brothers and sisters who are hunkering down in bomb shelters, who are hunkering down in basements, who are hunkering down in bombed-out buildings, who are fleeing, who do not know what awaits them," he said. "They are scared, they are fearful and they are angry, and rightfully so. However, this unity is a very powerful message that they are not alone."

State Sen. Ryan Fazio (R-36), State Rep. Corey Paris (D-145) and State Rep. Matt Blumenthal (D-147) all spoke, and said they stand with all those who defend freedom and democracy.

At the conclusion of the rally, the Ukrainian flag was raised next to the American flag, and the crowd sang the Ukrainian National Anthem.

A rally was held earlier in the day in Greenwich.