Kalamazoo Times

At the onset of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, leaders at Western Michigan University (WMU) lent their voice of support to the people of Ukraine.  

"We are saddened by and condemn in the strongest possible terms the aggression and bloodshed unfolding in Ukraine. The violence destroying lives and causing destruction in the country is unconscionable," WMU President Edward Montgomery, Faculty Senate President Marilyn Kritzman, Western Student Association President Alexis Morris, and Michael Ozga, Graduate Student Association director of advocacy and legislative affairs, said in a collective statement.  

A moment of silence was held at the campus flagpoles on March 1 so those in attendance could think about the people who are being affected by the invasion. The event was sponsored by the Western Student Association (WSA), along with the Haenicke Institute for Global Education, according to a university news release.

Mariia Parkhomenko, a political science graduate student from Melitopol, Ukraine, attended the gathering and said she was concerned about relatives in her home country.

"It is very touching that the WMU community supports Ukraine. It means a lot. I feel that I am not alone. I feel people's kindness and sympathy," she said. "Ukrainians have always been very strong, courageous, and brave. We never give up."

The Registered Student Organization is examining avenues that will further involve the school with helping during the ongoing crisis. This could involve aligning with the Campus Activities Board to gather care packages for those affected by the invasion, according to WMU.

Matias Alvarez, a music education student from Michigan, said, "I feel like just bringing awareness to [the conflict], spreading that kind of news, and making sure people know what's going on — that can definitely help." 

WMU said that any members of the college who are feeling distressed by the ongoing situation could seek counseling, along with other resources.

The WSA has amassed a list of organizations that are accepting funds and donations for Ukraine.