𝗨𝗞𝗥𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗘 𝗜𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗡𝗖𝗘: Hundreds Carry 100-Foot Ukrainian Flag Across Santa Monica Pier

SANTA MONICA — Saturday, August 23, 2025 — Hundreds of members of the American Ukrainian community and supporters gathered along the coast to mark Ukraine’s Independence Day with a symbolic march of solidarity. The demonstration began in Ocean Park, where participants carried a 100-foot Ukrainian flag to the Santa Monica Pier, creating a striking display of unity against the backdrop of the Pacific. Families, children, veterans, and allies joined the procession, many waving Ukrainian and American flags as they walked together. The event was organized by the Stand With Ukraine Foundation and combined a run and walk with speeches, chants, and fundraising efforts. As they moved along the beach path and onto the pier, participants raised their voices in unison, chanting “Russia is a terrorist state,” “Arm Ukraine now,” and “Save Ukrainian children.” At the pier, the large flag was unfurled across the wooden planks, drawing the attention of onlookers and tourists. Mykhailo Lavrys, President of the Stand With Ukraine Foundation, addressed the crowd and emphasized both the symbolic and practical purpose of the march. “We are so proud of you,” Lavrys said. “It’s obvious there is a brutal war of aggression that Russia is waging against Ukraine, and we’re trying to use every possible opportunity to raise awareness and to fundraise. Today we had a run-slash-walk from Venice to Santa Monica, unwrapping the 100-foot Ukrainian flag as a symbol of unity. Ukraine is fighting not only for its own freedom, but for the free democratic world. This is a fight of good against evil, and that is our message today.” Lavrys noted that the foundation is raising funds for tourniquets, calling them “life-essential, life-saving things” that can help Ukrainian defenders survive injuries on the battlefield. He encouraged those wishing to contribute to visit SWUfoundation.org. The march also welcomed international guests, including Sandra Brikaitė, Consul General of Lithuania in Los Angeles; Hanna Kumpusalo-Tyukalov, Finnish Consulate General in Los Angeles; and Dmytro Medvid, a veteran and Captain of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Their presence underscored the international nature of the event and the broad support Ukraine continues to receive abroad. The Independence Day Freedom Run and March blended cultural celebration with political activism, reflecting both the pride and urgency of Ukraine’s ongoing struggle. As the flag stretched the length of the pier and chants echoed above the waves, the demonstration became a vivid reminder of resilience and the global call to stand with Ukraine.