RI Gov. Ready To Welcome Ukrainian Refugees 'With Open Arms'

PROVIDENCE, RI — As hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians flee the Russian invasion of their country, Rhode Island's governor has one message: you are welcome here. In a letter to President Joe Biden, Gov. Dan McKee said the Ocean State stands ready to welcome refugees.

Rhode Island was founded on the principles of religious freedom, and the first colony to declare independence, McKee said. He also pointed to the Independent Man statue on top of the State House dome, which symbolizes "freedom, independence and hope and [serves] as a reminder of the importance of standing up for what you believe in."

McKee said he was "shocked and saddened" by the invasion of the sovereign nation, adding he was "deeply moved by the spirit and courage of the Ukrainian people who are standing up for democracy and independence in remarkable ways."

The letter went on to say that Rhode Island is ready to welcome refugees "with open arms."

"Ukrainian refugees should know that they can find solace and safety in our state," McKee said. "Rhode Island, once again, is ready and willing to do its part to accept refugees into our communities."

As a symbol of solidarity, the governor also ordered that the State House be lit in blue and yellow, the colors of the Ukrainian flag, for the remainder of the week.

The letter echoes a similar message McKee sent last August, when he welcomed refugees fleeing Afghanistan into the state.