The second anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine is later this month.
To mark the day, a local organization is planning a rally and march through downtown Vancouver as the war continues on the other side of the world.
Since Feb. 24, 2022, more than 10,000 civilians have died in Ukraine, according to the United Nations, with hundreds of thousands of soldiers dead between the Russian and Ukrainian forces and allies.
The Ukrainian Canadian Advocacy Group, a Vancouver-based organization, is holding a rally on Saturday, Feb. 24 at the Vancouver Art Gallery, followed by a march through the city's core, though a specific route hasn't been announced.
“For two years, Ukrainians have been fiercely fighting for independence and freedom,” says the organization's founder, Olga Prodan, in a press release. “For two years, our defenders have been making unimaginable sacrifices. For two years, Ukrainians and our supporters have transformed strength into action.”
Starting at 1 p.m., the rally will include speeches, music, and moments for reflection.
Prodan notes the rally will focus attention on the thousands of Ukrainian children taken by Russian troops into Russia, where they're taken to re-education facilities.
"They must be returned home. The world must do everything to guarantee their safe return,” Prodan says.
