Ukrainian flag to be displayed in Kelowna council chambers

For the first time ever, a non-Canadian flag will be on display in Kelowna’s council chambers.

The city is showing its support for Ukraine following the Russian invasion by hanging a flag in its chambers, city communications manager Tom Wilson said via email.

“The Ukrainian flag will be on display in council chambers and visible during council meetings. This is the first time a national flag other than Canada’s has been on display at a council meeting,” Wilson said.

Mayor Colin Basran will make remarks about the invasion of Ukraine during council’s next meeting on Monday, March 7, and he will be attending a rally organized by the Ukrainian Cultural Society this Sunday, March 6, at 2 p.m.

Peachland is also displaying the colours of the Ukrainian flag, yellow and blue, nightly in Heritage Park.

“Other Central Okanagan communities have shown their support for the country by lighting. Unfortunately, we can’t do the Sails light-up unless the water in the fountain is flowing, since the water is needed to keep the high-intensity lights cool – otherwise they burn-out,” Wilson said. The Sails, a popular Kelowna landmark and symbol of the city, is known for its colourful light displays that have changed to show support of various events that have impacted the city.

READ MORE: Peachland park lights up in support of Ukraine

Rallies have been held across the Thompson-Okanagan region and globally following the Russian invasion, Feb. 24.

More than 1.4 million Canadians are of Ukrainian descent.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Carli Berry or call 250-864-7494 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

We welcome your comments and opinions on our stories but play nice. We won't censor or delete comments unless they contain off-topic statements or links, unnecessary vulgarity, false facts, spam or obviously fake profiles. If you have any concerns about what you see in comments, email the editor in the link above.