CANTON – Ukrainian colors of blue and yellow on posters, flags, balloons and people’s attire could be seen everywhere at the village park downtown Saturday.

Nearly one hundred community members gathered at a vigil to support Ukrainians in the wake of Russian attacks that began Feb. 24.

Ukrainian native Ola S. Aldous, now living in DeKalb Junction, said her “heart is warmed” by the number of people who came to the vigil.

“Thank you for showing you care. Thank you for coming here today to spend with us in unity with the Ukrainian people,” said Marina Smith, Canton, another native of Ukraine.

“Ukrainians didn’t choose this war. They chose to defend their right to freedom, their right to independence, and their right to be Ukrainian,” said Smith.

"People have no food, no water, no heat. They're living in ruins. Despite all this,  Ukrainians continue to fight, she said.

" As the Ukrainian National Anthem was played, Aldous waved the flag of Ukraine. Then she led a march down Main Street, chanting ““Glory to Ukraine. Glory to heroes.”

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Ukrainian native Ola S. Aldous, DeKalb Junction, leads a march chanting “Glory to Ukraine. Glory to heroes” down Main St., Canton, following a vigil in the Village Park Saturday.  NCNow photo by Cheryl Shumway