IN 2022, the city, residents from Ukraine and the Ukrainian Cultural Center of New England partnered to host a presentation about Ukraine’s history. (Photo by Raj Das, edphotos.com)

MELROSE – On February 24, 2022, Russian forces launched an unprovoked attack on Ukraine. To commemorate the one-year anniversary of the initial attack and continue to support its residents from Ukraine, the City of Melrose will host a Ukrainian Flag Raising ceremony in collaboration with its Ukrainian resident, the Ukrainian Cultural Center of New England (UCCN), and State Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian on Friday, February 24 at 12:30 p.m. in front of the Essex St. entrance to City Hall.

Last year, the City raised the Ukrainian flag, handmade by Melrose resident and Ukrainian Inna Boyko, to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and the Ukrainian natives of Melrose.

“The City of Melrose is proud to continue to stand in solidarity with our residents from Ukraine and Ukrainian people as a whole,” said Mayor Paul Brodeur. “Last year, with the support of our residents, local businesses, and non-profits, we were able to collect medical supplies for Ukrainians.  This year we are eager to find new ways to continue to support those who need our support as they continue to face the challenges of war every day. We want all our residents to know we are here to support them throughout this hardship, and any others as they arise.”

All Melrose residents, businesses, and non-profits are invited to attend the flag-raising ceremony this Friday.