In her native language, Ukrainian refugee Natalia Derevianets shared what the past three years have been like since Russia invaded her motherland on Feb. 24, 2022.
Originally from Kyiv, Derevianets' heartfelt words were translated by fellow Ukrainian Anastasiia Borodina, from the city of Dnipro. Both women live in the North Okanagan, and work together now. They were among 50 taking part in a special event Sunday, Feb. 23, at Vernon's St. Josaphat's Ukrainian Catholic Church, marking the third anniversary of the Russian invasion.
"During these three years of being abroad, we have been bringing our Ukrainian words and showing Ukrainian thoughts and culture. Today, we are remembering those who were killed, and we are proud of those who are fighting for the freedom of Ukraine," said Derevianets, translated by Borodina.
"Today, we join together for the victory of our motherland, and we will do this until the time when our crazy Eastern neighbour will stop frightening Ukraine, and will stop being dangerous."
Sunday's ceremony in Vernon was hosted by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress Thompson Okanagan, of which Vernon's Andrea Malysh serves as president.
Following an hour-long church and prayer service conducted by St. Josaphat's Father Andriy Werbowy, Malysh welcomed guests to a lunch by donation, provided and prepared by church parishioner Olga Piano.
"For the past three years, the heroic Ukrainian Armed Forces and Ukrainian people have stood united in defence of freedom in Europe in the face of Russia's genocidal onslaught," said Malysh. "The courage and determination of the Ukrainian people inspire the world.
"This day is a solemn reminder of the ongoing struggle, the sacrifices made, and the resilience of the Ukrainian people."
North Okanagan-Shuswap MP Mel Arnold was invited to speak. He told the guests Canada was the first Western country to recognize Ukraine's sovereignty and freedom.
"Canada has a strong history of supporting other countries, and especially the Ukraine, when their freedoms and sovereignty are threatened," said Arnold, accompanied by his constituency assistant, Teresa Durning.
"Prime Minister Stephen Harper was the one to stand up on the world stage and directly tell (Russian leader Vladimir) Putin to get out of Ukraine."
Multiple cities across Canada held rallies this weekend as part of a global day of action marking the third anniversary of Russia鈥檚 invasion of Ukraine.
A handful of other cities have rallies scheduled for Monday.
