Ukraine War Anniversary: Vermont Vigils Mark 4 Years of Conflict | VPR
– Vermonters in Burlington and Montpelier marked four years since the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine with vigils and demonstrations, reflecting a continued sense of solidarity and concern as the war enters its fifth year. The events served as a reminder that despite shifting global attention, the conflict continues to impact millions and remains unresolved.
A candlelight vigil held at the top of Church Street in Burlington drew supporters waving Ukrainian flags and displaying signs of support. Participants expressed a shared feeling that maintaining awareness of the ongoing war is crucial, even as other international events demand attention.
For Barbara Felitti, a resident of Huntington, Vermont, the anniversary carries a particularly poignant weight. Having lived and worked in Ukraine beginning in the 1990s, Felitti maintains strong personal connections to the country and its people. “I don’t think anyone thought it would happen,” she said, reflecting on the initial shock of the invasion. “Four years later, we’d still be waiting for them to have their freedom.”
Felitti described a routine of regularly checking in with friends still residing in Ukraine, a practice often accompanied by anxiety, particularly following reports of major attacks. “If I don’t hear back right away, I get a little bit worried until I do hear from them,” she explained. “But I realize they might not have power or any number of things could have happened.” This underscores the precariousness of daily life for many Ukrainians, where basic necessities like electricity are frequently disrupted.
In Montpelier, supporters have been gathering twice a week since the start of the invasion to demonstrate their solidarity with Ukraine. This consistent display of support highlights a sustained commitment from the Vermont community.
The anniversary also holds significance for state Senator Tanya Vyhovsky, a Ukrainian American lawmaker who continues to have family and friends in Ukraine. “Just always wondering who wakes up the next day,” Vyhovsky said, encapsulating the constant worry experienced by those with loved ones in the conflict zone.
Vyhovsky is currently working on a resolution to condemn Russia’s actions and reaffirm Vermont’s support for Ukraine. She emphasized the importance of even symbolic gestures, stating, “It is incredibly meaningful for them to know that we are standing with them. I think Vermonters have been very clear.” This initiative reflects a broader effort to demonstrate political support for Ukraine at the state level.
The grassroots advocacy group Vermont Stands with Ukraine has been central to organizing these events since the beginning of the conflict in 2022. Co-founder Jeanette Bacevius recounted how a spontaneous rally in Burlington brought together a previously unconnected group of Ukrainian Americans. “None of us knew each other before,” Bacevius explained. “We decided to gather together and start events, rallies, fundraisers and vigils for Ukraine.”
Since its formation, Vermont Stands with Ukraine has consistently advocated for Ukraine within the state, organizing numerous events to raise awareness and provide aid. The group has collaborated with organizations like the Peace and Justice Council to support initiatives such as the World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization providing food relief to crisis zones globally. World Central Kitchen has played a vital role in delivering aid to Ukraine, addressing the critical need for food security amidst the ongoing conflict.
Vermont Stands with Ukraine has held annual vigils on since the start of the invasion, establishing a recurring focal point for remembrance and advocacy. Organizers have indicated that these vigils and demonstrations will continue for as long as the conflict persists, demonstrating a long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine.
The continued demonstrations in Vermont reflect a broader international effort to maintain pressure on Russia and provide support to Ukraine. While the conflict has faded somewhat from the headlines, the events in Burlington and Montpelier serve as a reminder of the human cost of the war and the ongoing need for international solidarity. The vigils also highlight the deep personal connections that many Americans have to Ukraine, and the anxieties felt by those with family and friends still living in the country.