By O. Kondrashov, J. Crego, N. Malanii
Image Credit: O.Kondrashov
The Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022 has displaced millions and killed thousands of innocent civilians (Reyes, 2022). This unprovoked act of violence has reverberated across the globe, affecting the lives of Ukrainians and non-Ukrainians alike. In the small community of Merritt, British Columbia, residents have felt compelled to act in support of Ukraine. Though separated by thousands of miles, the people of Merritt empathize deeply with the struggles faced by Ukrainian refugees and are taking action to support them.
Local Efforts to Support Ukrainian Refugees
Nick Kzanoski, a teacher in Merritt, highlights the importance of preparing Canadian schools and teachers for the arrival of Ukrainian refugee students, many of whom have experienced trauma. His call for trauma-informed teaching practices underscores the need for patience, understanding, and comprehensive support to help these children integrate and heal. The Canadian government’s decision to allow an unlimited number of Ukrainian refugees into the country, providing access to essential services, aligns with Merritt’s welcoming stance and the broader national effort to support Ukraine (Kzanoski, 2022).
Julia Gulakova’s story epitomizes the spirit of resilience and community support that defines Merritt. Fleeing Ukraine after her condo was bombed multiple times and her husband tragically died of a heart attack amidst the chaos, Gulakova found refuge in Merritt with her three children and mother. The community, having endured its own share of hardship through the devastating floods of 2021, rallied to support her, embodying a profound sense of shared experience and empathy (CBC, 2023).
In Merritt, community members are already preparing to aid arriving refugees. Members of the Cross Roads Community Church prayer group felt compelled to take action after hearing of Russia’s invasion. The group organized an impromptu candlelight vigil to “offer their prayers up to those who are affected by the events in Ukraine” (Reyes, 2022, para. 5). Attendees included the church pastor, who previously ministered in Ukraine, and a local Ukrainian-Canadian who sang the Ukrainian national anthem (Reyes, 2022). Through song, candles, and communal prayer, Merritt residents stood together in solidarity with Ukrainians during this dark hour.
Material Support for Displaced Ukrainians
In addition to communal prayers and vigils, Merritt residents have provided tangible support to ease the suffering of Ukrainian refugees. After hearing of Russia’s attacks on civilians, the management of Civeo’s Merritt work camp felt morally obligated to help. They led a drive to collect donated blankets and bedding from employees to ship overseas (Reyes, 2022b). Along with a local nonprofit, hundreds of blankets and duvets are being transported to Ukrainian refugee camps in time for winter. As Russian attacks have left millions homeless, these donations will provide lifesaving warmth.
Poetry as an Expression of Solidarity
Beyond material support, creative works have allowed Merritt residents to voice their solidarity with Ukrainians. A poem titled “Promise in the Midst of Battle” eloquently captures the community’s sentiments (Mitra, 2022). Addressing the “united people and leaders of Ukraine,” the poet draws on religious texts to portray the righteousness of Ukraine’s cause (Mitra, 2022, para. 7). It expresses steadfast confidence that “goodness and loving kindness shall follow you, all the days of your life” (Mitra, 2022, para. 5-6). The poem reflects a somber yet hopeful message that likely resonates with many Ukrainians seeking consolation. Its publication in the local newspaper further signals to Merritt’s Ukrainian diaspora that they are not alone in this trial.
Parallels Between Merritt and Ukraine’s Suffering
What compels this outpouring of support from the small, remote community of Merritt? The strong empathy expressed by locals may stem from Merritt’s own recent disasters. In 2021, the community faced devastating flooding and wildfires which deeply impacted residents (Reyes, 2022). Just as Ukrainians are now dependent on the generosity of allies, Merritt had relied on provincial disaster relief funds to recover. One prayer vigil organizer poignantly stated, “Merritt’s been through an awful lot with the floods and the fires…But you know, we’re never at the end of our trail, we can always be thinking about and caring for somebody else” (Reyes, 2022, para. 4). This sentiment of overcoming adversity through mutual support and compassion rings loudly in Merritt’s aid to Ukrainian refugees.
A Model of Humanitarian Aid
On the global stage, the voices of small communities like Merritt may seem insignificant compared to powerful nation-states. However, the story of Merritt’s support for Ukraine provides hope during an otherwise dark chapter in human history. While governments focused on grand geopolitical strategies, the people of Merritt acted on their basic morality to help those in need. Their community vigils, material donations, poetry, and messages of solidarity did not turn the tide of war. Yet for Ukrainian refugees finding safety in Canada, this compassion from strangers will have life-changing impact. The people of Merritt set an example of how ordinary citizens can make extraordinary humanitarian contributions, even from half a world away.
References
CBC. (2023). Ukrainian refugee finds support — and work in Merritt. [Audio broadcast]. Retrieved from https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/2196176963725
Kzanoski, N. (2022, May 26). Supporting Ukrainian refugee students. BCTF News & Opportunities. https://www.bctf.ca/news-and-opportunities/news-details/2022/05/26/supporting-ukrainian-refugee-students
Mitra, S. (2022, April 4). Poem for Ukraine [Letter to the editor]. Merritt Herald. https://www.merrittherald.com/letter-poem-for-ukraine/
Reyes, I. (2022a, March 11). Prayer group organizes vigil for Ukraine. Merritt Herald. https://www.merrittherald.com/prayer-group-organizes-vigil-for-ukraine/
Reyes, I. (2022b, October 26). Blankets for Ukraine. Merritt Herald. https://www.merrittherald.com/blankets-for-ukraine/