A fundraising event was held at Yountville Veterans Park in Yountville, California, in support of Ukraine and Ukrainian refugees living in the Napa Valley. Participants raised funds for turnstiles to save lives in Ukraine and celebrated Ukrainian culture.
This was reported by the event organizer Napa Valley to Ukraine: Support, Advocacy, Friendship.
"This event is an opportunity to say to the Ukrainians: we are with you. We understand your struggle, we support you, and we will not leave you alone in this difficult time," the post reads.
During the event, Ukrainian music was played, traditional food was served, handicraft booths were available, and guests had the opportunity to talk with activists and listen to speeches by invited guests.
The event was attended by local officials and representatives of Ukrainian and American civic initiatives. Yountville Vice Mayor Robin McKee urged everyone to continue to support Ukraine and assured them of the city's continued support. Congressman Mike Thompson's representative, Anna Chouteau, delivered a message on behalf of the Congressman:
"Putin's invasion of Ukraine has sparked the largest land war in Europe since World War II, taking thousands of innocent lives, destroying the well-being of Ukrainians, and undermining our national security. Our country is a world leader, and we have a responsibility to remain committed to democracy and to help our allies defend themselves against attacks on freedom and democracy. Putin did not stop after invading Georgia and Crimea, and he will not stop in his attack on Ukraine. Failure to respond appropriately to this invasion will not only mean more dead Ukrainians, but will also make Americans and citizens of other democratic countries less safe," Congressman Mike Thompson said in a statement.
"Turnstiles save lives - everyone who donated became part of a great cause," the post read.
The event was attended by members of the Sunflower Society and YOLO for Ukraine, who spoke about their own initiatives and handed out "We Stand with Ukraine" signs.
Photos: Anna Chouteau, Olga Noshyn
Author: Inna Mikhno