VOICE OF SUPPORT: THREE YEARS OF STRUGGLE

On February 24, an important event took place at the Ukrainian Voices RC community center as part of the activities commemorating the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The gathering brought together concerned individuals and served as a symbol of unity and support during this difficult time for Ukraine.

The event began with speeches from distinguished guests and officials:

“Currently, there are more than 15,000 Ukrainian refugees in the Brussels-Capital region. I am proud of the solidarity shown by its residents. You are welcome guests here,” said Peter Michiels, head of the Ukrainian coordination in the Brussels-Capital region.

Ukrainian Voices RC President Mykhailo Dzivitskyi sincerely thanked all the partners who have stood by Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression, emphasizing, “Ukraine will be free. Peace will come!”

Stefan Maier, Head of the Legal and Political Support Department at the UNHCR Belgium Regional Representation for EU Affairs in Brussels, also spoke: “Together with other UN humanitarian organizations, we have delivered assistance to 800,000 people living in hard-to-reach border communities in Ukraine. Tonight, I want to remember all those who have suffered great losses in this cruel war: those we have lost—brothers, sisters, parents, grandparents, and children.”

Representatives from initiatives and organizations supporting Ukraine also took the floor. Philippa Tucker from the European Forum of People with Disabilities shared her experiences in providing support to over 70,000 people with disabilities. Olena Shostak Олена Шостак from Action Ukraine EU spoke about the humanitarian center established in Brussels at the start of the full-scale invasion. Her presentation deeply moved all attendants.

In addition, the project Ukrainian Youth United in Belgium was introduced—an initiative led by young Ukrainians to support cultural integration and socialization in Belgium.

One of the most moving parts of the event was dedicated to culture. Participants of the Literary Studio shared personal experiences shaped by war and forced emigration, presenting their works of prose and poetry.

Cultural integration initiatives were also highlighted. Halyna Rodina and Olena Rodina, from the Ukrainian national ranking Book of the Year Всеукраїнський рейтинг «Книжка Року» , donated over 300 books to the community center’s library and shared their thoughts on Ukraine’s cultural integration into the European Union through artistic and intellectual contributions.

We are sincerely grateful to everyone who supports and helps us. Thank you, Belgium, for your open heart to all those seeking refuge. 💙💛

More photo: https://drive.google.com/…/1TGno1NiO1Km0XdRnkHds7Sckzy8…