Nearly 200 people gathered on the south side of the Rhode Island State House on rainy Saturday afternoon to rally for Ukraine and for peace. The event was emcees by Dr. Michael Fine, former Director of the RI Department of Health. Below is all the video from the event.
The event began with music from the Extraordinary Rendition Band.
"We're here together in Rhode Island to do two things," said Dr. Fine. "To make clear that the people of Rhode Island support the people of Ukraine and their freedom and their democracy as one people indivisible, and to raise funds for UNICEF, to provide aid for the children hurt, maimed and displaced by Vladimir Putin's war."
Music was provided by violinist Gregory Ayriyan and vocalist Adam, who performed the Star Spangled Banner and the Ukrainian National Anthem.
Bishop Nicholas Knisely provided the invocation:
Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee:
Christine Charest of St. Michael's Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Woonsocket:
Robert Whitcomb, reporter:
Refuge Dream Center Executive Director and cofounder Teddi Jallow:
The vigil concluded with a Litany for Peace organized by Reverend Gene Dyszleski:
