Ukrainian newcomers grateful to be in Saskatchewan; vigils set to mark milestone

The one-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was being marked Friday.

As Ukraine fights for its freedom and sovereignty, millions of people have fled the war, with thousands of them arriving in Saskatchewan.

Elena Krueger, the president of the Saskatchewan Provincial Council of the Ukrainian Council of Canada, told the Greg Morgan Morning Show on Friday it’s challenging for her to process what’s been going on in Ukraine.

“One day, (I) think, ‘How is this even possible? How is it even happening that our ancestral homeland finds itself in this position where it has to defend itself?’ ” she said. “And then other days (I) go back to (my) everyday living and then almost feel guilty sometimes … If my worst thing is to complain about -30 (temperatures), I have a good life.”

A lot of people are still confident that Ukraine will prevail, with over $52 million being donated by Canadians so far to support Ukraine.

Krueger said most newcomers are pleasantly surprised by the organization and strength of Saskatchewan’s Ukrainian community.

“They’re surprised that there is a lot of support for them and how welcoming Canada has been and the province of Saskatchewan,” Krueger added. “They’re just overwhelmed by that and very grateful to have Saskatchewan here as a place of refuge for them.”

As for whether they would return to Ukraine after the war is over, Krueger says it depends on each individual family and their own circumstances.

“Some have come and they’ve left family behind. They’ve been uprooted. Many will have their spouses still fighting or working to support those who are defending the country,” she added. “But then also, we’ve had families who’ve come. They’ve brought their children (who’ve) experienced various forms of trauma.”

Krueger said some of these displaced families may decide to permanently call Saskatchewan home, especially if they don’t want to uproot their children once again.

“We’ve seen just incredible response, (with) people volunteering,” Krueger said, noting people have said they can help the families by offering them jobs, a place to live, rides to the grocery store or help improving their English. “We have all of these nice volunteers who are really supportive and … the newcomers are really feeling that support.”

To mark the one-year milestone, there are going to be events across the province.

In Regina, a candlelight vigil is scheduled to be held Friday at 6 p.m. in front of City Hall.

“People are encouraged to come bring candles or battery-powered candles, perhaps some flashlights (or) glow sticks … and bring signs showing support that (they) stand with Ukraine,” Krueger said.

“For the people of Ukraine, this is so important, to have this moral support (and) to know that others in the world care about them, not only to defend their country but to defend Europe … (and) what is true and what is good.”

In Saskatoon, a vigil will be held Friday at 6 p.m., at City Hall.