Civic leaders from across Birmingham joined members of the Ukrainian community and local partners to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The event was attended by senior city officials, reaffirming Birmingham’s continued commitment as a City of Sanctuary. Among the distinguished guests were the Mayor of Birmingham, Zafar Iqbal MBE, the Leader of Birmingham City Council, John Cotton, Councilors Ken Wood and Martin Brooks, and Francis Thomas from the Homes for Ukraine –Resettlement & Migration team.
“For 1,461 days, the people of Ukraine, including the citizens of our twin city Zaporizhzhia, have demonstrated unwavering courage, spirit and national pride despite immense challenges. The proud people of Ukraine continue to defend their homes and borders, fighting tirelessly for the fundamental principles of freedom and the right to self-determination. The citizens of Birmingham salute the bravery and resilience of the Ukrainian people, and we stand in absolute solidarity with you in your struggle,” said Cllr John Cotton, referring to the enduring ties between Birmingham and its Ukrainian twin city, Zaporizhzhia.
The programme featured performances by Ukrainian artists and students of the Ukrainian school “Vodograi,” one of three supplementary schools operating within the Bosnian House in Birmingham, as well as members of the Kryla Youth Club.
The central moment of the afternoon was the ceremonial unfurling of a ten-meter Ukrainian flag across Centenary Square, followed by a candle-lighting ceremony symbolizing remembrance and hope.
Following the gathering, an evening of reflection was held at the Bosnian House. The documentary “Timestamp” by award-winning Ukrainian director Kateryna Hornostai, recipient of the Crystal Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival, was screened. The film offers a powerful insight into the resilience of Ukraine’s education system in wartime conditions, echoing the themes of courage and perseverance highlighted throughout the day.
“What we witnessed at Centenary Square was strength, unity and hope. The solidarity shown by Birmingham’s civic leaders and citizens reminds us that Ukraine is not alone. Together, we continue to support our community, preserve our cultural identity and firmly stand for the values of freedom and peace,” said Maria Shvenko, a manager at Bosnia UK Network.
Cooperation with Bosnia UK Network reflects a deep understanding between communities that have experienced the consequences of war and displacement. The Network plays a strong local and significant national role in the United Kingdom in advocating for rights and supporting the integration of Ukrainians, Syrians and other communities.
The Bosnian House in Birmingham serves as a central hub for community gatherings, education and solidarity, where bridges of support and intercommunity cooperation are built every day.
