Crowds gathered in downtown Seattle on February 22, 2023, to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The event, organized by the Ukraine Defense Support (UDS), featured a march from Pike Place Market to the Space Needle, where a rally took place. Organizers anticipated participation from around 1,000 individuals, although some potential attendees chose to stay away due to concerns about immigration enforcement.
The march commenced at approximately 11:30 a.m. and concluded with a rally at the Space Needle starting at 1 p.m. Event organizers expected the activities to wrap up by 3 p.m. This year’s commemoration highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by Ukrainians, particularly during a harsh winter characterized by constant bombardment of energy infrastructure.
Marcia Jacobs, Communications and Media Director for UDS, emphasized the significance of this year’s event. “This year’s march and rally is especially important because Ukrainians are enduring the most bitter winter since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022,” Jacobs stated. She noted that Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy systems have left millions without electricity, gas, or water, as temperatures plunge below freezing.
The atmosphere at the event was one of solidarity and resilience, with attendees holding signs and chanting slogans in support of Ukraine. The gathering served not only as a demonstration of support but also as a reminder of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Ukraine. Many participants expressed their commitment to advocating for continued assistance to the country.
In addition to the march, various speakers addressed the crowd, sharing personal stories and urging for greater international support. The event aimed to raise awareness about the challenges faced by Ukrainians and to galvanize community action in response to the ongoing conflict.
While the turnout was expected to be significant, some individuals expressed apprehension about attending due to fears related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity. Jacobs acknowledged this concern, stating that it may have deterred some potential participants from joining the march.
As the day unfolded, the Seattle event was part of a broader international movement to stand in solidarity with Ukraine. Similar gatherings were held in cities across the globe, showcasing a united front against Russian aggression. The Seattle march underscored the importance of community engagement and continued advocacy for those affected by the conflict.
The situation in Ukraine remains dire, with reports of widespread devastation and human suffering. As the conflict enters its fifth year, the international community continues to grapple with the implications of the war and the need for sustained support for Ukraine. The Seattle rally served as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the ongoing commitment of supporters worldwide to stand with them in their time of need.
