The battle between Russia and Ukraine
On February 24, 2022, Russia bulldozed into Ukraine in a multi-pronged invasion that has left an eerie mark in European history books. Ukraine’s 44 million residents woke up to bombs, fighting, and brutal attacks against the country. Half a million people have fled to neighboring countries.
Now, the country is in the throes of war, and the destruction is catastrophic. If you’ve seen the news recently, you’ve probably seen the images of bomb smoke flooding the air of cities, falling buildings and razed homes, and families desperate to escape the country. The evidence of distress and disaster throughout Ukraine is heartbreaking.
The attacks come after years of escalating tension. Now, Europe is facing the largest security crisis since the Cold War.
Throughout the chaos, heroes have emerged. As Ukrainian men leave their families and fight to defend their country, Ukrainian women are also bravely stepping up and coming together during this difficult time.
Ukrainian women are demonstrating strength
International Women’s Day 2022 comes at a time when Ukraine is under attack, and women throughout the country are proving their unwavering courage and grit.
According to Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, more than 15% of the regular Ukrainian army are women.
The women who aren’t fighting in the army are fighting in other ways without hesitation: helping each other, being on the front lines in full hospitals, delivering stories on the ground as journalists, serving as leaders managing crises, and volunteering in the coldest months of winter to supply medical supplies, food, water, and more to those in need.
Several videos are surfacing on the Internet of women standing up, coming together, and doing everything they can to help their country.
Support Ukrainian women for International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day 2022, titled “Break the Bias,” comes when we need to recognize and honor the courageous women fighting against one of the most catastrophic attacks in European history.
There are many ways to support and donate to women and girls in Ukraine. Here are 4 examples:
- Booking an Airbnb in Ukraine: Many are booking Airbnb’s in Kyiv for a certain period of time to give money directly in the hands of the residents there who need it.
- Spreading support and awareness on social media: A simple way to show support is by talking about Ukraine and sharing resources to help.
- Talking to your friends and family about Ukraine: It’s fundamental to discuss the conflict with your loved ones. It can be a frightening time for children, so explaining how you can help can calm their worries.
- Writing to your congressman: A letter to your congressman can emphasize the voices of Ukrainians needing human rights assistance. There are plenty of resources to help you draft a template, such as this one by Boundless.
There are multiple donation organizations where you can give. Here are a few of them:
Learn more about women’s rights from a lawyer
International Women’s Day celebrates and raises awareness about the trials women have gone through throughout history to fight against bias, stereotypes and discrimination worldwide. Talk to a dedicated provider lawyer to receive expert legal advice on women’s rights.
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