Longford 'Justice for Ukraine' event in St Mel's Cathedral this evening
Bringing together the community of Longford in solidarity with the displaced of Ukraine is the purpose of a remembrance ceremony to be held in Longford next Friday. Marking the first anniversary of the Russian invasion “Justice for Ukraine” will take place in St Mel’s Cathedral on February 24.
Organised by Alla Shmygovska, Tiernan Dolan and John Farrell the evening will feature music, dance, photography and art. Longford has a good reputation among those who have been forced to flee that conflict in the last year.
“They feel very welcome in Longford,” Tiernan tells the Leader, “I've been told that many believe Longford is one of the most welcoming counties in Ireland, because of both the voluntary community workers and the Statutory bodies like Longford Community Resources and Longford County Council.”
Extending the hand of friendship is what the “Justice for Ukraine” evening is about: “It's an event to mark the passing of one year since the invasion of Ukraine. There is music, but there is a serious side to it as well.”
Figures from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth indicated that nationally over 49,227 Ukrainian refugees are accommodated by the State. Making a difference in the lives of the displaced is more than just the responsibility of the government, the communities across Ireland also play a part.
“They are integrating extremely well. Many have jobs, some are on courses,” Tiernan says, “They are very intelligent, very resilient, but they are going through a very difficult time as well.”
Friday's event is expected to attract a good crowd: “We hope around 200 Ukrainians will attend. We have refugees living in Leitrim and Cavan who will attend the Longford event. We hope many Longford people will come along to show solidarity. What the Ukrainian people have gone through, and are going through, is way beyond any of our comprehension,” Tiernan outlined.
The impact of the war is far reaching: “Alla said sometimes her fellow country people meet and are moved to tears by the enormity of what is happening to them. They hug and cry. Some have lost absolutely everything. That's not just a phrase. Their house is gone, every brick. Their job is gone, perhaps their husband is gone and they have to put on a brave face, because their children are here with them.”
Tiernan says the efforts of the Irish people are acknowledged by the people of Ukraine: “A special word of thanks has to go to the teachers across the country who have done so much to help the children of Ukraine, children who have gone through a lot.”
There is a diverse programme for the evening. Those attending will also hear the story of how one refugee escaped the town of Bucha, the location of atrocities by Russian Forces on the civilian population.
“They have a choir composed of Ukrainian nationals based here in Longford. The Longford children's choir will also perform. A shoebox appeal called “Little Steps for Ukraine” is already in operation. Two shoe boxes will be brought up and explained at the event,” Tiernan concluded.
“Justice for Ukraine” will take place in St Mel’s Cathedral, Longford at 6pm on Friday, February 24.