Revelstoke political leaders respond to planned Saturday Stand for Ukraine vigil

A public vigil in support of Ukraine is planned for Saturday, March 5 at 6 p.m. in Revelstoke’s Grizzly Plaza. We first reported on the Stand for Ukraine rally in this story published on Feb. 28, 2022:

Migrant Revelstoke seamstress sews support for Ukraine, local vigil planned

The event, in support of a local migrant from the Ukraine, is being organized by co-workers through the Stand for Ukraine Facebook event.

After hearing about the rally, revelstokemountaineer.com reached out to local municipal- and regional-level political representatives for comment.

Revelstoke’s mayor, two city councillors, and the Columbia-Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) Area B representative responded.

Revelstoke Mayor Gary Sulz said he will be attending the candlelight vigil.

“It is great to see citizens engaged to bring to light our community support for those of Ukrainian descent,” Sulz said in response to our request for a brief response. “It is very sad and traumatic to see what the Ukraine and its people are having to endure at this time. We trust that our support to the Ukraine will be of value to those who need it.”

Councillor Jackie Rhind said the vigil was a way the community can show support. “Our community has a lot of love to share, so it’s great that the vigil gives people a way to show their support for Ukraine (since monetary/resourcing donations are not always feasible),” said Rhind in response.

Councillor Nicole Cherlet offered support for the vigil. “My heart breaks for Nataliia and all Ukrainians; I can’t imagine what she must be going through. I hope the gathering brings her and all the attendees comfort. So much of the world stands united in calling for peace and supporting Ukraine; by standing together that message comes through loud and clear.”

CSRD Area B Director David Brooks-Hill offered his response: “War is never the answer to political disagreement. I support entirely Ukraine’s efforts to defend itself from this unjustified invasion.”

The Stand for Ukraine vigil in Grizzly Plaza starts at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Mar. 5 and is scheduled to last for 30 minutes.