Montrealers continue to rally and support Ukraine
Posted February 28, 2022 10:30 am.
Last Updated February 28, 2022 2:41 pm.
Montrealers packed Place du Canada on Sunday to show their continued support for Ukraine.
“Against fear, we have only unity and solidarity. We must stay strong, together,” said Arsenii Pivtorak, 18-year-old Ukrainian-Montrealer. “It’s just unbelievable that we live through such events, that one man can just disturb the peace in the world.”
All Pivtorak can think about is the safety of his family and friends in Ukraine.
“They tell me that they hope to survive the next day, and I don’t think this is the appropriate thing to live for teenagers like me, you know, like were supposed to party and like have fun – not to be in bunkers.”
Pivtorak came to Canada in 2014 with his family. He’s a student in international issues at CÉGEP du Vieux Montréal. He says growing up in Ukraine influenced his educational path. His goal – to help people in any way possible. He says young Montrealers can do their part by being vigilant for misinformation online.
“I think about interrupting my studies and go to the Ukraine, or Poland, or close to go to help – humanitarian aid.”
(CREDIT: Shanellie Desparois/CityNews)
He is inspired by the strength of his community back home and the millions around the world showing solidarity with the Ukrainian people.
“The first day of the large scale attack, I called my friends and they reassured me. How strong are these people? The dictator, one dictator, can do nothing against 40 million people that are so free, you know?”
