To the Editor:

We are planning a peaceful gathering from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, March 7, in Downtown Statesville to show support for Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukraine.

Many folks on both sides of the political spectrum are disappointed in President Trump’s position concerning the Russian attack on the sovereignty of Ukraine. Not only has our country invested billions of dollars to help the people of Ukraine, but we also are aware of the atrocities that Russia has bestowed upon the Ukrainian people by bombing infrastructure and kidnapping women and children. Add to that the longing of the Ukrainian people to be a free and democratic society like our own, and we have a dire need for our voices to be heard.

We will gather on the Square in Statesville to show our support. We urge folks to bring American and Ukrainian flags and posters that show your support for Ukraine. While we cannot tell you what to present, we hope that the attendees present a positive message of support for Ukraine and Democracy. We also would love to see veterans participate.

Please be aware of proper peaceful demonstration protocols such as not blocking streets, sidewalks or entry to buildings.

It’s time for our voices to be heard. We believe that there is not anything more valuable to America in Ukraine than freedom and democracy. See you Friday!

Bob & Lisa Barber
Hiddenite