Weston Candlelight Vigil Held to Support Ukraine
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocal.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
A woman from Ukraine and her husband listen to her countrymen as they describe the situation in their homeland.
About 100 people braved the cold Monday night to show support for the people of Ukraine as they battle against the Russian invasion to preserve their freedom and save their democracy. First Selectwoman Samantha Nestor, who helped organize the event on the steps of the Weston Town Hall, introduced nearly a dozen speakers. Clergy included Pastor Thomas Burke of the Norfield Congregational Church, who led the attendees in prayer. Local elected officials were in attendance including State Representative Anne Hughes . Several members of Weston's Ukrainian community spoke passionately about their family and friends who are hurting - fearful about what is yet to come.
In Their Own Words: Ukrainians Tell Their Stories:
Sergey Ishin-
"In these strange times many things are happening that I could never have imagined were possible. I could never have imagined that we could see a full-blown war in Europe. I could never have imagined that my friends would be hiding from bombs in basements and subway stations. I could never have imagined that I’d see such unity around the world against the aggressor. But I have always believed and continue to believe in the spirit of Ukrainian people and their desire for freedom. They are holding up against the Leviathan and they will win! Slava Ukraini! Слава Україні!"
Iryna Akozina-
“Dear World! Thank you for supporting Ukraine, democracy, freedom of speech, and justice. More than 40 millions of Ukrainian people want to live in their home country, on their Ukrainian land. And the villains wants to take this land from them. I am scared. I feel pain for the Ukrainians who have been experiencing the horrors of war since February 24, 2022. I am proud for the united Ukrainian patriotic spirit! But no people deserve such unprecedented abuse and harassment! The situation is heartbreaking. The restitution will have to be paid to every human being who suffered. Ukrainians are praying for a quiet night, we are praying for them! Let the villains tumble down to where they belongs right now! Let the peace be restored! The whole 40 millions population of Ukraine can’t flee the country looking for a new home, they have to stand or dig in and defend their motherland!
Glory to Ukraine! Glory to Heroes! “
Katrina Moran-
I’m from Ukraine and my whole family is currently stranded outside of Kyiv. It’s unfair what’s happening to our country and our people. Before this, Ukraine was a thriving country with a bright a future and all we want now is peace and freedom for our country and our people.
Remarks By First Selectwoman Nestor:
Today we stand in solidarity with Ukraine.
We stand against oppression.
We stand with people from all around the world choosing democracy over autocracy.
We stand with displaced Ukrainians fleeing and fighting for their lives.
We stand to bear witness and not look away.
We stand to act in support. Let us be ready and willing to make sacrifices as a country and as individuals to help stop this illegal violent aggression and help those hurt by it.
We stand for PEACE.
I light this candle for Ukraine tonight: for the moms and dads trying to shield their children who suddenly don’t have safe places to sleep, the soldiers protecting their country, Ukrainian leaders, and for those who have already perished in this conflict.
We are inspired by Ukraine’s courage, leadership, and example.
Westport will hold it's own event, "Stand With Ukraine" in support of the people of Ukraine at 11:00 AM on Saturday at the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen Memorial Bridge
