The Ukrainian flag was raised to the sound of the besieged country’s national anthem during a brief but poignant ceremony outside the Ormstown town hall on Thursday. Mayor Christine McAleer thanked the nearly 40 residents who attended the event as a show of solidarity with the people of Ukraine. “I think democracy is at stake here,” says McAleer, who insists the flag will continue to fly “as long it needs to.” The mayor admits she feels helpless considering the devastating situation in Ukraine, and knows she is not alone in wanting to help. “The fact people are being mobilized suggests there is a strong interest in the community,” she says. She promises to launch a coordination centre at the town hall for any area people who wish to give time and energy to ensure the region is ready to welcome any displaced people from Ukraine.

VIDEO Sarah Rennie