Kamloops stands with Ukraine. 
Today marked our 201st consecutive Saturday gathering near City Hall—almost four years of unwavering solidarity since February 24, 2022. None of us ever wanted to be here. We all know why we stand. And yet, we keep coming.
The December cold doesn’t stop us. Whether it’s winter frost or summer sun, we show up—because Ukraine hasn’t stopped fighting, and we won’t stop standing.
Today’s gathering was filled with warmth—Ross brought Timbits to share! Helga and Jack joined us, Don and Alana placed the flag on the tree, and Michelle and John waved our flags proudly. I’m especially grateful Svitlana was with us while Larysa and Mama stayed home. And to everyone who couldn’t be there but sent messages—we felt your presence. You were with us in spirit.
What warmed us today wasn’t just the treats and good company—it was the cars driving by, the waves, the honks, the thumbs up. Each gesture a little warmer, a little more intentional. They see us. They remember. They drive in solidarity with us.
We also practiced singing a special new song for Ukrainian defenders—we’ll continue rehearsing next week. You’re welcome to join us!
“Greetings from Kamloops / Вітання з Камлупса”
(to the tune of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”)
Verse 1
We send you our warmest greetings,
We send you our warmest greetings,
We send you our warmest greetings,
From Kamloops, with care.
Chorus
Good tidings from Kamloops,
Wherever you are,
Good tidings of courage
And hope this new year.
Verse 2
We thank you for standing strong,
We thank you for standing strong,
We thank you for standing strong,
For freedom and peace.
Chorus
Good tidings from Kamloops,
Wherever you are,
Good tidings of courage
And hope this new year.
Verse 3
We stand with you strong united,
We stand with you strong united,
We stand with you strong united,
With hearts that are true.
Вітання з Камлупса (Українською)
(на ту саму мелодію)
Куплет 1
Ми шлемо вам щирі вітання,
Ми шлемо вам щирі вітання,
Ми шлемо вам щирі вітання,
З Камлупса з теплом.
Приспів
Вітання з Камлупса,
Де б ви не були,
Вітання, відваги
Й надії в цей рік.
Куплет 2
Ми дякуємо вам за відвагу,
Ми дякуємо вам за відвагу,
Ми дякуємо вам за відвагу,
За волю і мир.
Приспів
Вітання з Камлупса,
Де б ви не були,
Вітання, відваги
Й надії в цей рік.
Куплет 3
Ми з вами серцем і думкою,
Ми з вами серцем і думкою,
Ми з вами серцем і думкою,
Ми з вами усі.
Exciting News for 2026!
We’re launching a Ukrainian bandura and musical instrument practice group along with a Ukrainian-Canadian choir right here in Kamloops!
First gathering: Saturday, January 17th, 2026
Time: 5:00 p.m.
Location: My place!
All are welcome—no experience necessary, just a love for Ukrainian-Canadian music and community. Let’s make beautiful music together!
As we approach the heartbreaking four-year mark of this full-scale invasion, the community spirit that keeps these gatherings alive continues to inspire me. To everyone who stood with us today in person, and to everyone who stands with Ukraine in spirit—dyakuyu. Thank you.
We will keep going. Every Saturday. For as long as it takes.
Слава Україні!
#StandWithUkraine#KamloopsStandsWithUkraine#Day1403#Saturday201#UkraineStrong
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