Chicago Ukrainians honor World Refugee Day, bring attention to Russian terror

The Illinois division of the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA) joined the observance of World Refugee Day, held on June 20 at Chicago’s downtown Daley Plaza. 

The event took place in Chicago on June 17, just hours after a combined Russian drone and missile killed dozens of Ukrainians and injured more than 100 civilians. 

“We came with Ukrainian flags marked with black ribbons — mourning victims of yet another horrific bombings in Kyiv by [Kremlin ruler Vladimir] Putin’s russia,” the UCCA Illinois said.

In his speech, Mayor Brandon Johnson affirmed that Chicago is a city that welcomes all refugees. He especially recognized Ukrainians fleeing war and destruction, whose cities are being reduced to ashes by Russian aggression.

“The crowd responded with heartfelt applause, showing true solidarity with the people of Ukraine. Journalists and news outlets were present to amplify our voices, helping to share our stories with all of Chicago,” the UCCA Illinois said.

The community assembled  to raise awareness about Ukraine and to affirm that Ukrainians have a voice both in Chicago and across American society.

“We continue to remind everyone who will listen that Russia is a terrorist state responsible for killing and displacing millions, sparking a global refugee crisis,” the UCCA Illinois said.

The organization expressed sincere gratitude to all who took part. 

“Our deepest condolences go out to the families of those killed by Russian terror in Kyiv and across Ukraine. We remember that Ukraine’s fight for survival and its place in the world is far from over,” the statement said.