Phoenix Community Comes Together to March and Rally as the Third Year Anniversary of Full-Scale Invasion of Ukraine Approaches

Children’s group AriZori perform Ukranian National Anthem at the Phoenix StandWithUkraine Rally. Photos by Christina Scherer.

The Ukrainian community in Phoenix came together to mark the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine with a powerful display of unity and resilience. The event, held at the Ukraine Cultural Center, brought together families, activists, and supporters who remain steadfast in their commitment to standing with Ukraine during this ongoing conflict.

The gathering at the Ukrainian Cultural Center in Phoenix. With Ukrainian flags waving high, the crowd marched along 7th Avenue toward Colter Park. The procession demonstrators, many dressed in blue and yellow, carried signs calling for peace, justice, and continued aid for Ukraine. The march served not only as a commemoration but also as a statement to the broader Phoenix community that Ukraine’s fight for freedom remains urgent and ongoing.

Upon reaching Colter Park, participants gathered once more to hear from guest speakers, who urged continued vigilance and action. The heartfelt speeches reminded attendees of the sacrifices made by those defending Ukraine’s sovereignty. They called on the crowd to continue advocating for support and awareness, emphasizing that the war is far from over and that Ukraine still needs global solidarity and a peace agreement rooted in “peace through strength”. The rally emphasized that the war affects not only Ukraine but also the broader struggle for democracy and human rights worldwide. A particularly moving moment came when Arizori, a local Ukrainian children's group, took the stage to perform Ukraine’s national anthem. Their voices, filled with both innocence and strength, resonated deeply with the crowd, bringing some attendees to tears. The atmosphere was one of both solemn remembrance and determined hope as participants publicly displayed their unwavering support.

The event concluded with a striking and symbolic gesture—unfurling a massive blue and yellow Ukrainian flag. As the flag stretched across the crowd, participants held it high, reflecting the enduring strength and resilience of Ukraine and its people. This moment served as a reminder that, even thousands of miles away from the conflict, the Ukrainian community in Phoenix remains deeply connected to the struggle for their homeland’s freedom.

As the gathering dispersed, many left with renewed determination to continue supporting Ukraine through advocacy, fundraising, and awareness campaigns. The anniversary event was not just about remembrance—it was a call to action, ensuring that Ukraine’s fight remains at the forefront of global consciousness.