On Friday night and for the foreseeable future Airdrie City Hall will be lit up in the colors of the Ukrainian flag, blue and yellow to show support for the country.

Airdrie Councillor Heather Spearman feels like it's important to show solidarity at a time like this. 

“In a time of so much uncertainty, it’s important to give people a sense of community and care. Seeing leaders in the community stepping up serves to remind us that we can all be here for each other, even in the most trying times.”

Spearman estimates that there are just over 100 individuals in Airdrie who’s first language at home is Ukrainian, and countless other families who are 2nd and 3rd generation Ukrainians throughout Airdrie.

“I’m not of Ukrainian heritage but many of my friends are. I can see the heartbreak all around me and like anyone else, we are all watching nervously what is going on across the globe. For me, it’s about seeing people who need support and making sure we’re doing our best as a community to lift them up in their time of need.”

Spearman went on to say she and her council colleagues are grieving with the Ukrainian community and are sharing any information they can to support Ukrainians in Airdrie and their loved ones. 

“Know your community is here for you and we are all praying for a quick and peaceful resolution.”

The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin announced that he would begin what he called a “special military operation” in the Donbas region of Eastern Ukraine on February 24 2022. Russian forces in the following days have pushed deep into Ukraine from basically all sides by air, sea, and land, including an attempt to encircle the capital. 

Spearman finished off by saying, “I would encourage anyone looking to help to either donate to the Canadian Red Cross, as the federal government will be matching donations dollar for dollar up to $10 million. Canadians in Ukraine or those with a family member in Ukraine who need consular assistance, can contact Global Affairs Canada”.


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