Once again, students and community members rallied on campus on Thursday to show support for Ukraine.

Organized by the Penn State Ukrainian Society, more than 200 people gathered outside Old Main to criticize Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Many brought handmade signs that evoked feelings of unity, while others criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin and pleaded for an end to the conflict.

During the event, community members led a “We Are” chant that also showed support for Ukraine.

Another rally in support of Ukraine got started with a “We Are” chant outside Old Main on Thursday. pic.twitter.com/N4SrAe38go

— Onward State (@OnwardState) March 3, 2022

A handful of community members spoke at Thursday’s rally. Among them was State College Mayor Ezra Nanes, whose great grandfather hailed from Ukraine.

Thursday evening’s rally covered Old Main’s doorstep in swaths of blue and gold to represent Ukraine’s flag.

The @JordanCenter is lit up this week to show support for Ukraine ?? pic.twitter.com/jFir2z5Q6f

— Onward State (@OnwardState) March 3, 2022

This week, local landmarks like the State College Municipal Building and the Bryce Jordan Center even lit up in blue and gold to show their support for Ukraine, too.

The Ukrainian Society’s rally drew in supporters both young and old. The event was often somber in tone, but it served as an outlet to bond through tragedy and unify as a community.

During Thursday’s event, the Ukrainian Society sought to collect donations that would benefit those within Ukraine, including children, displaced families, and those on the frontlines. Through its aptly named Venmo account, @WEARE4UKRAINE, the group aimed to raise $10,000.

For more information on future events, visit the Penn State Ukrainian Society’s Instagram or Facebook pages.

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