Seattle – Today, Mayor Bruce Harrell issued a proclamation marking the first anniversary of Russia’s attack on Ukraine and expressing the City of Seattle’s ongoing solidarity with the Ukrainian people. solidarity with the Ukrainian people.
“The unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine by Russian troops and the devastating toll it has had on innocent lives has been heartbreaking to follow over the last year, and our city undeniably condemns this senseless act of aggression,” said Mayor Harrell. “Our vision for One Seattle includes being an inclusive, welcoming place for immigrant and refugee communities, and we will continue to support and stand in solidarity with our Ukrainian neighbors and the people of Ukraine as they bravely defend their country and freedom.”
READ: Day of Solidary with the People of Ukraine Proclamation
In the days following the invasion last year, Mayor Harrell met with Honorary Consul of Ukraine Valeriy Goloborodko and local Ukrainian community to reiterate Seattle’s support for Ukraine and to discuss the immediate and long-term steps to stand with Ukraine. In March 2022 he issued an executive order in support of the people of Ukraine, directing City departments to assist impacted communities.
“One year ago families throughout Ukraine sleeping in their beds woke up to rockets exploding around them, hearing what no one in this world should be experiencing in the 21st century. Russian leadership unlawfully and unjustly attacked a democratic country trying to take its land, and break people’s will and spirit. Ukraine however stood strong defending principles of freedom and democracy not only for itself but for the whole world,” said Valeriy Goloborodko, Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Seattle. “What was meant to destroy unified people of good will, and people of values and principles. Friends like the City of Seattle came together to support us and stand with us in the battle of civilizations. The leadership of Mayor Harrell has been outstanding. Ukrainians heroically fight on the frontlines, while Seattleites do so much to help with having our backs. We are grateful for all that the City of Seattle and its residents have done for the people of Ukraine both in Ukraine and here in Washington. Together we will celebrate the victory of good over evil.”
On April 4, 2022, Mayor Harrell led an effort to bring together 37 King County leaders to host The Mayor’s Concert for Ukraine and Refugees Worldwide with the Seattle Symphony and local Ukrainian artists. Proceeds from the concert benefitted the Seattle Refugee Fund, which was created to benefit relief efforts for the people of Ukraine and other refugees in Seattle-King County.
The concert raised approximately $429,000, with 70 percent of funds going towards organizations helping Ukrainians both abroad and in King County, and 30 percent going towards nonprofits assisting other refugees locally.
Organizations that received funding include the Ukrainian Community Center of Washington, International Rescue Committee, CAIR Washington, Entre Hermanos, and the Tigrean Community Association.
The City also partnered with the Ukrainian Association of Washington, Port of Seattle, and Governor’s Office to coordinate a shipment of $3.5 million worth of emergency medical supplies to Ukraine.