Two rallies in support of Ukraine take place in York this weekend – Here’s when and where
People who have just arrived in York after fleeing war-ravaged Ukraine could speak at a rally in the city today (Saturday).
The York Stands with Ukraine gathering, organised by York’s two MPs, takes place at 2.30pm at St Helen’s Square.
Meanwhile a No To War In Ukraine demo, organised by the Stop the War Coalition, is due to take place tomorrow (Sunday) at 2pm near the Constantine statue outside York Minster.
The speakers for the Saturday afternoon event have now been announced. They are:
- Rachael Maskell – MP for York Central
- Julian Sturdy – MP for York Outer
- Chris Cullwick – The Lord Mayor of York
- Stephen Cottrell – Archbishop of York
- All Saints School Children – two students will talk about the Prayer Chain for Peace which took place in York on Wednesday
- Alex Lewis, a lecturer in education and conflict at University College London, will be speaking on behalf of the Russian Speaking and Eastern European Communities of York (RSEECY)
- Patrick O’Donnell – President of the University of York Student Union
- City of Sanctuary
- Refugee Action York
- Human Rights City
Organisers say: “We are also hoping to have speakers who have recently arrived safely in York after being forced to flee from Ukraine, still to be confirmed.”
Rachael Maskell, Labour MP for York Central, said:
It is so important that we come together now as a city. In watching the atrocities unfold, we can feel so helpless, but when we come together, stand together and send our solidarity to the people of Ukraine together, we too play our part in calling for this war to end and justice for the Ukrainian people.
Julian Sturdy, Conservative MP for York Outer, said:
The world has been united in condemnation at Russia’s unprovoked aggression, in awe at the incredible acts of bravery by Ukrainian’s defending their homeland, and in sympathy with those fleeing their homes.
My inbox has been filled with heartfelt messages from residents who want to do more to show solidarity and help our Ukrainian neighbours. Saturday will be a chance for York to come together to show that our city will stand shoulder to shoulder and not relent in our unwavering support for Ukraine.
We must not let evil triumph.