OPB: In Portland, Ukrainians Protest Against Russian Invasion and Complacency
Four years after Russia first invaded their country, Ukrainians say they’re working to keep Americans energized and informed about the war.
Yulia Brockdorf stood next to a table displaying stuffed animals next to missile fragments. She called it the “Impact Booth,” a sobering reminder of the everyday reality for many living in Ukraine.
Brockdorf is the president of DAWN, a nonprofit organization that delivers medical supplies to her home country of Ukraine. In addition to distributing aid, she also works to keep the plight of Ukraine front of mind for those living in the U.S.
“We need to keep attention on Ukraine in every sphere of our life,” Brockdorf said. “It’s also essential that we educate the public and do not become complacent ourselves.”
Ukrainians in Oregon gathered in Pioneer Courthouse Square in Portland on Sunday to recognize the fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has led to the deaths of hundreds of thousands of soldiers and civilians.
Organizers called on the federal government to increase its support of Ukraine’s fight to maintain its independence, both in foreign aid and weaponry. But there were also calls for those in attendance to continue advocating and not forget the ongoing effects of the war.


