Seattle Mayor makes February 24 ‘Day of Solidarity with the People of Ukraine’
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell marked the first anniversary of Russia’s attack on Ukraine and expressed Seattle’s ongoing solidarity with the Ukrainian people by making February 24 ‘Day of Solidarity with the People of Ukraine’, the Mayor said in a media release on Friday.
“The unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine by Russian troops and the devastating toll it has had on innocent lives has been heartbreaking to follow over the last year, and our city undeniably condemns this senseless act of aggression,” said Mayor Harrell. “Our vision for One Seattle includes being an inclusive, welcoming place for immigrant and refugee communities, and we will continue to support and stand in solidarity with our Ukrainian neighbors and the people of Ukraine as they bravely defend their country and freedom.”
In the days following the invasion last year, Mayor Harrell met with Honorary Consul of Ukraine Valeriy Goloborodko and the local Ukrainian community to reiterate Seattle’s support for Ukraine. He also discussed the immediate and long-term steps to stand with Ukraine.
In March 2022, he issued an executive order to support the Ukrainian community in Seattle and in Ukraine. He directed City departments to assist impacted communities.
“One year ago families throughout Ukraine sleeping in their beds woke up to rockets exploding around them, hearing what no one in this world should be experiencing in the 21st century. Russian leadership unlawfully and unjustly attacked a democratic country trying to take its land, and break people’s will and spirit. Ukraine however stood strong defending principles of freedom and democracy not only for itself but for the whole world,” said Valeriy Goloborodko, Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Seattle. “What was meant to destroy, unified people of goodwill, and people of values and principles. Friends like the City of Seattle came together to support us and stand with us in the battle of civilizations. The leadership of Mayor Harrell has been outstanding. Ukrainians heroically fight on the frontlines, while Seattleites do so much to help with having our backs. We are grateful for all that the City of Seattle and its residents have done for the people of Ukraine both in Ukraine and here in Washington. Together we will celebrate the victory of good over evil.”
In April 2022, Mayor Harrell led efforts to host The Mayor’s Concert for Ukraine and Refugees Worldwide with the Seattle Symphony and local Ukrainian artists. Proceeds from the concert benefitted the Seattle Refugee Fund, which was created to benefit relief efforts for the people of Ukraine and other refugees in Seattle-King County.
The concert raised around $429,000, with 70% of the funds going toward organizations helping Ukrainians abroad and in King County. 30% went toward nonprofits assisting other refugees locally.
The City also partnered with the Ukrainian Association of Washington, Port of Seattle, and the Governor’s Office to coordinate a shipment of $3.5 million worth of emergency medical supplies to Ukraine.
The Space Needle also announced that they will be lighting up blue Friday night to display a bright message of solidarity for Ukraine.
