Ukraine’s Independence Day Celebrated in Ghent Amid Ongoing Conflict
On Ukraine’s 34th Independence Day, Ghent’s City Hall hosted a series of fundraising performances and speeches highlighting the persistent war with Russia. Attendees could purchase food, drinks, and various souvenirs, reports 24brussels.
As of now, approximately 80,000 Ukrainians reside in Belgium, with 1,800 in Ghent alone. “Immediately after the outbreak of the war, there was naturally a large influx. Since then, the number has steadily increased,” said Thomas Weyts from the European Network for Solidarity.
“This is an encouragement to everyone to keep helping and giving strength to those who are struggling.”
Weyts emphasized the importance of ongoing support from Ghent, noting, “That’s why we want to show our solidarity. For example, in Ghent, in Oostakker, there’s still the last emergency village in Flanders. The question is what the future holds, because there’s talk that Flanders will phase out subsidies for it starting in March.”
Supporting Ukraine
The conflict, which began in February 2022, shows no signs of resolution. The Ghent event served as a platform to garner support for Ukraine’s Independence Day, featuring a continuous lineup of entertainment, performances, and speeches.
The celebrations commenced with a screening of the documentary “Ukraine Before the War and Today.” Kit, a Ukrainian resident of Belgium for two decades, remarked, “We’re showing this video to illustrate the beautiful cities we once knew and what they’ve become. We’re also organizing these celebrations to assist the victims. Every night, bombings occur, and in the morning, people call each other to confirm they are still alive. Both people and animals are dying daily. This is an encouragement to everyone to keep helping and giving strength to those who are struggling.”
In addition to the cultural festivities, pastries, souvenirs, and drinks were available for purchase throughout the day. “All proceeds go directly to Ukraine,” Weyts added. “Convoys with supplies, food, and medicine depart daily.”
As the solidarity event concluded, the community’s commitment to support Ukraine remains steadfast, highlighting the ongoing need for humanitarian efforts in the face of adversity.
