Mayor's Message - March 2022

We Must Support Ukraine

I think we are all saddened, disgusted and disturbed by the deplorable brutal act of war by Russia’s President Vladimir Putin on the sovereign country of Ukraine.

We have seen the images, in the comforts of our homes, of Ukrainian children and families huddled in the subways and bomb shelters and recently being killed. Bombed out buildings. Fathers saying goodbye to their children as they board the train, as he stays to fight.

We have all admired the leadership of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy who has been a beacon of hope, strength and fighting with his life for real freedom. We admire the resolve of the Ukrainian people taking arms to protect their homeland from this ruthless dictator Putin.

We have many Ukrainians who immigrated to Canada and many right here in Halton Hills. As a matter of fact, there is a Ukrainian summer camp outside of Acton which had been established since 1954. Camp Veselka.

I know we are sitting around feeling helpless on what we can do. At our last council meeting, Council unanimously supported a resolution in condemning this illegal war on a democratic country.

We let the Federal government know we support all sanctions and the strictest sanctions possible on Russian and their partner in this crime on humanity Belarus. We support the Federal Government that we support any aid they can give Ukraine. That we stand with Ukraine.

Millions of refugees, mostly women and children have already fled Ukraine to neighbouring Poland, Romania and other countries. In this resolution we call on the Federal and Provincial governments to assist in welcoming those fleeing the war into our country.

Lastly, for those who can afford it, please donate to the many organizations supporting the people of Ukraine including the Canadian Red Cross, the Canada-Ukraine Foundation and others. We also have a group of local artists that will donate proceeds from sales of their art to support Ukrainian relief efforts. Works may be purchased from exhibitions at Young’s Pharmacy beginning March 20 and the Cultural Centre’s Sisnett Lobby from April 3 - May 1.