Outpouring of support for Ukrainians under siege

People are showing their support for Greater Victoria’s Ukrainian community as their homeland remains under siege by Vladimir Putin’s Russian forces. Several thousand people attended a rally at the BC Legislature on Sunday, and The Flag Shop has been working non-stop to try to meet the demand of people wanting the blue and yellow Ukrainian flag.

The flag has been displayed in numerous places across the region, including on top of the Hotel Grand Pacific.

As well, the Times Colonist published a pullout Ukraine flag in the print edition of Wednesday’s paper.

There is also a growing call to fast-track immigration for people fleeing the Ukraine and looking to start a new life in Canada. The federal government has approved more than 4,000 applications from Ukrainians who were in line to immigrate here. The government also extended temporary status for Ukrainians already in Canada to work, study or visit.

If you’re interested in learning more about the situation in Ukraine, the University of Victoria is hosting a free Teach-In tonight at 4:30 pm. UVic experts on Ukraine will help explain what is happening and how to help.