‘Join together in support of peace.’ What to know about downtown vigil for Ukraine
Lexington will host a vigil Wednesday at the Robert F. Stephens Courthouse plaza to show solidarity with Ukraine, city officials announced Monday.
The city’s International Affairs Advisory Commission sponsored vigil will begin at 6 p.m. at the courthouse plaza at the corner of North Limestone and Main streets.
“The attack on Ukraine is so difficult to watch, and even here in Lexington we want to show our support for those living in the country, but also our region’s residents with direct ties to Ukraine and the region,” said Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton. “Lighting up our downtown and holding a peace vigil are ways we can join together in support of peace in Ukraine as millions around the world are doing.”
From March 1-5, LexPark will light the Helix garage on Main Street and two downtown pedways in blue and yellow, the colors of the Ukrainian flag. City Center will also light its buildings in blue and yellow.
Lexington-Fayette Urban County Councilwoman Jennifer Reynolds is helping to host the event. Reynolds is on the International Affairs Advisory Commission, which helps advise the mayor and the council on issues affecting the region’s international community.
“When one of our European delegates to the commission expressed concern for the trauma the Ukrainian and European communities are facing, the group agreed to do something to bring people together, and show our deep concern for what is happening in Ukraine,” Reynolds said. “It is easy to feel helpless, and coming together can seem like a small act of solidarity, but in a time of crisis, it’s an opportunity to start somewhere.”
Reynolds said it’s important the city show those who live here with ties to Ukraine that Lexington cares.
“I think it is extremely important we support our international residents living here in Lexington,” Reynolds said.
Several members of the Lexington area Ukrainian population will attend Wednesday’s event. The Ukrainian Pentecostal Church in Jessamine County held a prayer vigil for Ukraine on Friday, shortly after Russia launched its attack on Ukraine.
In addition, the city is asking people and residents to light their homes and businesses in blue and yellow to show support for Ukraine.
