General

Westgate CVI makes peace pledges on Day of Peace for Ukraine

Mar 9, 2022
  • Ukrainian international student Daria Buhaiova
  • From left: Trustee Sue Doughty-Smith, Chair of LDSB Ellen Chambers, Superintendent Alaksa, Superintendent Probizanski

Today, hundreds of students and staff at Westgate Collegiate and Vocational Institute made peace pledges amid the political events unfolding in Ukraine. The objective of the Day of Peace was to provide individuals with the opportunity to voice their promise to promote peace in all that they do. Through positivity and compassion, the peace effect is expected to leave a lasting impact on the community.

The initiative was inspired by the will to support the school’s Ukrainian international student and to express encouragement to all Ukrainians and those affected by the war. Students and staff were invited to wear blue and yellow, blue and yellow ribbons were handed out to wear, and the food and nutrition course students prepared blue- and yellow-frosted cookies. The school fundraised for the Canada Ukraine Foundation and all funds raised will help the Ukrainian refugees.

Daria Buhaiova, Ukrainian international student currently studying at Westgate CVI, discussed the impact of the conflict on her home country and relatives. “Most of my family is in the east part of Ukraine. I’m worried about my parents, my family, and of course about my country. I’m really surprised by the amount of support we have around Canada, around all over the world, support for refugees, and financial support for our army,” said the Grade 12 student. Daria Buhaiova’s message to Ukrainian civilians is one of reassurance and strength. “They’re going to fight for our victory, for our land. Stay strong.”

Mayor Bill Mauro was in attendance and delivered a thought-provoking message for the audience. “It’s an opportunity to remember how lucky we are to live where we live and to not take it for granted. We are blessed in Canada.”

At Lakehead Public Schools, we offer education that surpasses the curriculum; we believe in teaching values and principles as well. The Westgate CVI school community acted on the Board’s value of Empathy and responded collaboratively as an influential group to support one of their own.