Ruth joins Ukrainian Independence Day Event in Twickenham

On Saturday 5 September, Ruth Cadbury MP attended an event in Orleans Gardens in Twickenham to celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day, which was on 24 August. The event brought together members of the Ukrainian community who live across West London, including in the boroughs of Richmond and Hounslow. The event featured live music, dance performances, food, and a range of activities for children and families. The event was also joined by a representative of the Ukrainian Embassy. Over 1,000 Ukrainian refugees settled in the London Borough of Richmond and the Borough of Hounslow after Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine forced many families to leave the country, especially due to attacks on the civilian population and energy infrastructure.

Commenting after the event, Ruth said:

"It was lovely to join this celebration of Ukrainian Independence Day and to meet so many Ukrainians who have made West London their home. I was particularly pleased to be able to meet the lead organiser, Alina, who has set up the Ukrainian Social Club to support Ukrainians across West London.

Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine in 2022 meant that many Ukrainians were forced to leave their homes, with many arriving here in the UK. People across London opened their homes and welcomed Ukrainians to our communities. West London has a long history of welcoming people fleeing persecution, whether this was Polish people during and after the Second World War or East African Asians fleeing Kenya and Uganda, so I was pleased that we continued to uphold this historic tradition.

In my speech at the event I was able to reaffirm my own support for Ukraine and Prime Minister Andy Burnham's continued support for the people of Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. Andy’s first overseas visit as Prime Minister was to Ukraine, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to Ukraine and I know that this support will continue."