Laois people joined with Ukrainian friends in Portlaoise last weekend to hang white paper angels on a tree at SS Peter and Paul's Church, Portlaoise to commemorate Ukrainians who have died since Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022.
Nataliia Uhnenko is part of the Ukrainian Laois Support Association. She said the global silent action "Memorial Angels" in honor of the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred takes place between February 18-20 on all continents.
This year marks the tenth time the "Memorial Angels" silent action has taken place as a symbolic tradition of commemorating those who died for Ukraine with white angels.
"Every year, Ukrainians all over the world create thousands of white paper cutouts that symbolize those who died for Ukraine and our common painful memory and belief in the victory of light over darkness.
"Paper angels in Kyiv are hung on trees that witnessed the shooting of peaceful Ukrainians who defended their right to dignity, freedom and statehood.
"Wherever we are we remember everyone who gave their life for Ukraine," she said.
Ukrainian refugees will gather with Laois people to hold a vigil in the Fitzmaurice Place in Portlaoise on Friday, February 24 at 7pm.
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