We stand with Ukraine. We stand with democracy.

Wordsmithie stands with people around the globe in calling for an end to Russia’s assault on peace and freedom in Ukraine. In words and deeds, we support the tireless efforts of those working to end the pain and suffering caused by the unjustified and unprovoked hostilities that have unleashed a humanitarian crisis of epic proportions. 

The world is witnessing the tremendous spirit, resolve, and tenacity of the Ukrainian people; may the beacon of liberty shine once again in their land.

In war, no one wins. 

Words of wisdom for our current times and to guide us toward the future:

There never was a good war or a bad peace. -Benjamin Franklin

It is my conviction that killing under the cloak of war is nothing but an act of murder. -Albert Einstein 

War is what happens when language fails. -Margaret Atwood

Peace is the virtue of civilization. War is its crime. -Victor Hugo

Anything war can do, peace can do better. -Bishop Desmond Tutu

Great is the guilt of an unnecessary war. -John Adams

We will not learn how to live together in peace by killing each other’s children. -Jimmy Carter

War… is as much a punishment to the punisher as to the sufferer. -Thomas Jefferson

You don’t liberate a country standing on the soil of another. -Fadia Faqir 

Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less. –Marie Curie

No war is inevitable until it breaks out. -AJP Taylor

I appeal for cessation of hostilities, not because you are too exhausted to fight, but because war is bad in essence. -Mahatma Gandhi 

The nationalist not only does not disapprove of atrocities committed by his own side, but he has a remarkable capacity for not even hearing about them. -George Orwell

How can we all help? 

Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness are intimately entwined. When we help others, we also gain hope, both for ourselves, and those we aid. Here’s a small list of organizations and programs that are making a difference in the lives of those directly impacted by the conflict in Ukraine. Please, do what you can to help them, or others assisting at this dire time

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

The United Nations estimates that in the coming months,12 million people inside Ukraine will need relief and protection, and the millions fleeing Ukraine need protection and assistance in neighboring countries. A Flash Appeal seeks $1.1 billion (USD) to assist 6 million people inside Ukraine for an initial three months to offer multipurpose cash assistance for the most vulnerable; food assistance; water and sanitation; health care and education support; and shelter assistance to rebuild damaged homes. The plan also aims to support authorities to maintain and establish transit and reception centers for displaced people and prevent gender-based violence.

World Central Kitchen

World Central Kitchen (WCK) began serving hot, nourishing meals at a 24-hour pedestrian border crossing in southern Poland. They’ve expanded their work by partnering with local restaurants, caterers, and food trucks in the region to provide meals for Ukrainians staying behind in their home cities as well as those fleeing at border crossings, shelters, and other refugee communities in Poland, Romania, Hungary, Moldova, and Slovakia.

Doctors Without Borders

As of March 6, Doctors Without Borders has suspended normal activities in Ukraine and switched to emergency operations. “Teams are preparing for a range of scenarios, including providing surgical care, emergency medicine, and mental health support for displaced people.”

Razom for Ukraine

Founded in 2014, Razom for Ukraine (“razom” means “together” in Ukrainian) aims to “help Ukraine pursue a democratic society that has civil rights for all.”

Airbnb

In addition to providing free, short-term housing for up to 100,000 refugees fleeing Ukraine, people around the world have been booking nights at Ukrainian Airbnb properties to support Ukrainian hosts, with Airbnb temporarily waiving guest and host fees. According to a tweet by Airbnb co-founder and CEO Brian Chesky, 61,406 nights were booked in just 48 hours, providing $1.9 million dollars to hosts. 

The International Committee of the Red Cross

The organization provides invaluable help by visiting refugee camps to help improve hygiene and nutrition, and are working to repair vital infrastructure, support health facilities with medicines and equipment, and support families with food and hygiene items (conditions permitting).

Four Paws International

For over ten years, Four Paws International has been operating a Stray Animal Care Team in Ukraine. They also operate a bear sanctuary in the western part of the country, whose dedicated volunteers remain on site. The organization is in daily contact with more than 30 colleagues in Ukraine. 

Save the Dogs and Other Animals

Donations ensure that Save the Dogs can help animals where it is most needed and enable the organization to provide emergency assistance for animals arriving in Romania from Ukraine and other war-torn areas.

Global Empowerment Mission

Miami-based Global Empowerment Mission has been on the ground in the small village of Medyka, Poland, using donations to buy incoming refugees train and plane tickets to help them reach any family or friends they may have in Europe.