We, along with many around the world, are horrified by the unprovoked act of violence committed by Vladmir Putin against Ukraine. Students in British Columbia condemn this action and stand in solidarity with all those impacted by these criminal acts.
We stand with the people of Ukraine who are now living in fear of violence and occupation after Russia’s attack on their country. We stand with Ukrainians all around the world who are worrying about their friends and family. We stand in solidarity with brave protestors in the streets of Russia opposing their government’s actions.
The BC Federation of Students has called on the Federal government to take the following measures:
- Lift visa requirements for all fleeing the violence.
- Immediately escalate sanctions against Russia.
- Work with other multinational groups to pressure Russia to cease hostilities, follow international law, and return to a path of peaceful resolution.
These measures must apply to all countries whose citizens are the victims of unjust wars and the pain they bring. We invite others to do the same.
Ways to Support
Below is a list of organisations that we can donate to, to help support those impacted. The list is not exhaustive, and we will update it as we become aware of other initiatives.
Voices of Children is a foundation that, since 2015, has been helping children in Ukraine deal with the effects of war and build up their futures.
Save the Children have been fighting for children’s rights around the world for more than a century. They are closely tracking the war in Ukraine and its dire impact on the lives of children, citing 7.5 million Ukrainian children are in “grave danger of physical harm, severe emotional distress, and displacement following an escalation in hostilities overnight.”
The Red Cross is already hard at work in Ukraine collecting blood, organizing and administrating volunteers, and directly helping those in need during this time of emergency.
The free press in Ukraine has never been more important than it is now. Kyiv Independent, is a local news organization in Kyiv that publishes in English.
International Rescue Committee
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has the main goal of evacuating regular people from war zones — including, now, Ukraine.
Sunflower of Peace was nominated by Ukrainians as one of the top organizations they’d love to see foreigners support right now. The organization prepares and provides vital first aid medical kits for doctors and paramedics on the front lines.
The Federation has donated funds to support Kyiv Independent, an independent media source in Ukraine who are being victimized by the violence and cyber-attacks to block the spread of information and Voices of Children. Additionally, the Federation has donated money to OVD-info, an independent human rights project in Russia who is providing legal support for those arrested while protesting their government.
We have also sent a message of support to our friends at the Ukraine Association of Students. As students, we should spend our days learning and advocating for affordable and accessible education for all, not living in fear. We stand with you.
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