By Evie Smith-Adams
As the war in Ukraine continues to rage on people are doing all they can to support those affected by the war. We have seen many different examples of help being provided by those in need from both charities and individuals.
Examples have included protests, supporting Ukrainian journalists who are covering the Russian invasion, and donating both essential supplies and money.
Another popular way of helping has been fundraising events such as concerts – both big and small – where all money raised and donated will be given to Ukraine and charities supporting Ukraine.
Tonight at 8pm, a two-hour long concert will be held to raise money for Ukraine, it will be shown on live television and viewers will be able to donate money to the cause. There will be performances from artists such as Ed Sheeran, Camila Cabello, Snow Patrol, Tom O’Dell and Emeli Sande, among others.
ITV said: “The event will bring together huge names in music to spread a message of hope while the conflict in Europe continues.”
The concert will be taking place at the Resorts World Arena in Birmingham and will air on ITV, and £100,000 has already been raised from ticket sales. ITV will be donating all the money made from advertising during the programme, which is estimated to amount to around £3 million. All money will be donated to the Disasters Emergency Committee’s (DEC) Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal.
A report from ITV expressed how performers are feeling about the upcoming event. Ed Sheeran said he is “so proud to be playing” whilst Emili Sande has said: “I will be singing to try to help every human forced to flee their home and in solidarity with those being racially discriminated against even within this humanitarian crisis.”
This comes as Black refugees fleeing from Ukraine have been racially discriminated against at the borders. There have even been claims that there has been racism by the UK.
Alani Iyanuoluwa, 24, is one of the many refugees who has claimed the UK has discriminated against Black people fleeing Ukraine. She had hoped to get across to the UK to reunite with her family in London but has been stranded at a French port because she is Nigerian, an article from the Guardian reports.
Alongside the musical performances there will be short films shown that will be related to the current refugee crisis, relief efforts and ongoing war.
To support this cause, you can make donations online at dec.org.uk or by phone on 0370 60 60 900.
Additionally, to donate £10 you can text ‘CRISIS’ to 70150. All donations will go directly to the DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal.
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