I recently had the opportunity to interview Natalie Pithers, the lead organiser of this unique and outstanding event which will be on March 26 and 27. Natalie wanted to bring her love of history – as a genealogist herself – into her fundraising efforts for Ukraine and has so far amazingly combined the two. As of today, History4Ukraine has raised £3,323.
What was your motivation behind creating the History4Ukraine event?
I think, like most people, I was horrified when I saw Putin invade Ukraine. I felt completely useless and kept wishing there was some way I could help in a meaningful manner. As a historian I was disgusted by Putin’s attempts at censorship and his attempts to eradicate Ukrainian history. I’ve always looked at the past for inspiration and started thinking about ways in which money has been fundraised in the past. Live Aid popped into my head, and I just thought it’d be amazing if we could do something like that – only with history speakers! It felt like a relief to be able to do something proactive.
What do you hope to achieve from the event?
Obviously, I hope that the event raises lots of money for the DEC / Red Cross. But I also hope it makes people think about the importance of history and our own personal heritage, and what it must feel like to have its existence threatened.
How did you set about getting speakers for the event?
Mostly through repeatedly putting out calls for help on Twitter and asking others to spread the word. Within 48 hours I’d had over 150 responses.
What message would you like to give to people through your event?
That history matters, and that we need to stand by those whose past and future are under threat.
How can people get involved in your event?
You can watch on YouTube at https://historyforukraine.co/livestream/ and share the link with others!
How will the money your event has raised help Ukraine and its people?
The money raised is going to the Disasters Emergency Committee and the Red Cross. It will help feed and clothe those in need, plus pay for much needed medical aid.
I thoroughly enjoyed speaking to Natalie and wish her and her team the outmost success with their unique and innovative fundraiser.
I will certainly be watching some of the videos and I would recommend that anybody who is interested in history watches them to. The line-up of speakers is phenomenal and topics such as Ukrainian history, women’s history, Jacobean history, WW2 and many more will be covered within the 24 hour live stream event.
Donations are already open and the total is constantly rising. If you wish to donate, you can do so via this link.
Read next: How to help Ukraine if you are in other countries