Natalia Rodriguez

Post #2- Ukraine Topic

I would say that my first observation was I certainly left this class session more politically and socially informed about the Ukrainian/Russian War at hand. To start on the groups, everyone did an amazing job in covering the grounds of the Ukrainian folks and their own perspectives. The snippets of the “realistic videos”, including the Ukrainian people giving their opinions on Putin, the war, and how they must fight for their home was heart felt. It was also surreal, as these are everyday people like you and I- faced with sudden strife and chaos. It was a sure reminder to not take life for granted, and to value the comforts we have here on American soil. 

Alongside being informed by the Ukrainian folks on their emotions, I was also informed on more statistical and factual matters- like how the housing market has shifted and been affected by the war. Along with shift in economics, it was enlightening but also frightening to hear about how people need to flee a place of memories and familiarity, for safety. Some of these countries, I learned are neighboring such as Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary. Unfortunately, even as refugees- supplies can be scarce. Luckily, European authorities are making the effort in supplying houses, hospitals, and school to these victims. 

It was mind boogling but not surprising to know that despite the call for a cease-fire among the citizens, Putin remains consistent in regime change through persistent violence. Due to the war, poverty and economic damage has caused recession, homelessness and over 2 million people falling under the poverty line. At this point, it is horrifyingly clear that the intention is to target infrastructure as well as depopulate innocent victims- such as the mentioned schools and hospitals. The inhumanity that is reflected by these actions really goes to show that history does repeat itself- even when it is not a collective choice! 

As it isn’t a collective choice, I have learned that many of the Ukrainian folks have hope in reintegrating themselves into their hometowns- as spoken of in the slides. Luckily, Ukraine has made effort to keep the national/social protection system afloat- by providing payment benefits. They also plan to create jobs on safe soil of Ukraine, such as government sponsored programs- to relocate “workers and enterprises”. This is one of the few facets that keeps society afloat, and it is reassuring to know that even in times of crisis- a country will unify to provide opportunity for their people. This is especially striking, considering the “4.8 million jobs” that have been lost at the hands of bloodshed, corruption, and destruction.

Aside from destruction, humanity still stands in the face of disaster. This can be reflected by the numerous agencies I learned about through the groups’ presentations and this wonderful class. Some include agencies that focus on children’s mental health- like a program called ‘Voices of Health’ which provides art therapy and mobile psychologists. Along with personally funded programs, there are government programs/agencies that have been applied and assigned to Ukrainian folks- such as UNHCR- which provides emergency assistance to family units- including cash assistance. As well as fundamental needs being covered- like water and food- through prevalent agencies like World Central Kitchen. As well as medical assistance such as international medical corps. 

All in all, this war reflects so many aspects of humanity. It paints the darkest and scariest sides of being forced into violence. However, it also depicts what humanity can do when they unify and focus on uplifting one another in unforeseen moments of strife and stress. Through agencies, programs, and the efforts to create jobs to sustain a society. It really shows to me the relentless nature of humanity and the strength of Ukrainian people in such trying times.