Calderdale shows the people of Ukraine ‘you are not alone’
THERE HAVE been tears, prayers and a massive outpouring of support as Calderdale strives to show it stands with Ukraine.
The heartbreaking news reports and incredible bravery of Ukrainian people as they come under attack from Russia have moved people across the borough, particularly those with family members and strong ties to Ukraine.
On Saturday The Piece Hall was lit up blue and yellow - the colours of Ukraine’s flag - for an emotional vigil.
Tetyana Lyuta, who moved to Halifax from Ukraine in 2009, was there with her seven-yearold
“It’s very important that people do these little things to show they stand with Ukraine.”
daughter, who had made a flag especially for the event.
She has close family in the country who she is desperately worried for. She said the streets she used to play in as a child now have tanks in them.
“It’s devastating,” she said. “It’s like something from a World War II film.”
She said that events like this and even small acts, such as changing profile pictures on social media to add the Ukrainian flag, matter a great deal to the people of Ukraine.
“It’s very important that people do these little things to show they stand with Ukraine, to
show support and that they are not alone,” she said.
“It’s not just our war, it’s a war with Europe.”
Roman Roman Suchyj is one of the Halifax Ukrainian community who was in Manchester on Saturday for a Stand with Ukraine event attended by more than 1,000 people.
He said the support of peo
ple from Calderdale, the UK and the rest of the world has been boosting morale in Ukraine, and urged people to continue.
He added the courage shown by people in the war-hit country has been inspiring: “It makes us proud to know they are our people.”
Halifax’s Wainhouse Tower has also been lit up yellow and
blue since last week, shortly after the Russian invasion began.
Calderdale Council Leader, Councilor Tim Swift, said there are many people in Calderdale who have family and friends in Ukraine, and they had his support and solidarity.
Halifax MP Holly Lynch said: “Thinking of all those in Ukraine, having to no choice
but to take a stand against tyranny.
“The international community stands with you.”