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Unity Celebration in Kyiv: Support for Refugees

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A large-scale event took place in the heart of Kyiv dedicated to World Refugee Day. In Shevchenko Park, a space for support and unity was created.

On June 20, an important event was held in the capital — a gathering dedicated to World Refugee Day. The event was organized by the 'Rokada' Charity Fund, aimed at supporting those forced to leave their homes due to war and start anew.

The program included performances by multicultural groups, children's workshops, an exhibition of displaced persons’ stories, and booths for legal and psychological support. This event served as a bridge between generations, experiences, and cultures.

“No one is born to be a refugee... We must not only empathize with those who had to leave everything behind — we need to build a new Ukraine together with them,” stated the chairperson of the 'Rokada' Charity Fund, Nataliya Gurzhiy.

The event was attended by Marina Honda, the deputy head of the Kyiv City State Administration for self-government issues, who received gratitude from the 'Rokada' Charity Fund.

She expressed appreciation for the trust and joint projects, assuring that there will be more in the future.

“Since 2014, Kyiv has welcomed over 420 thousand internally displaced persons due to war. You are part of the Kyiv community,” Marina Honda addressed the refugees.

Similar events also took place in various other cities across Ukraine, showcasing that support and solidarity can overcome any borders.

In Ukraine, following the outbreak of war, thousands of people were forced to leave their homes, moving abroad or to other Ukrainian cities, and we increasingly use terms like “refugees,” “internally displaced persons,” and “IDPs.” Experts note that some of these terms may be legally incorrect, while others can be offensive as they stereotype individuals, sidelining their experiences, achievements, preferences, and other social roles.