Updates December 19, 2024

What Does War Sound Like?

Maple Hope presents immersive audio experience on the occasion of 1,000 days of Russia’s full-scale invasion

What Does War Sound Like?

On the somber occasion of 1,000 days since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Maple Hope Foundation presented an immersive exhibit titled “What Does War Sound Like?” in Ottawa. This unique experience invited audiences to listen to the haunting and resilient sounds of Ukrainian cities at war, offering a visceral reminder of the ongoing conflict.

The exhibit was featured at two key events in the city. The first was a commemorative event organized by the Russian Embassy Protestors and Ukrainian Students’ Clubs at University of Ottawa and Carleton Universitiy. The second was the Prayer for Peace on Parliament Hill, an event organized by interns from the Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Program.

At the heart of the exhibit was a simple setup: a table equipped with Bluetooth headphones and posters explaining the sounds visitors would hear. These included the hum of drones, the wail of air raid sirens, the thunder of anti-missile systems, and the steady hum of generators—lifelines that keep Ukrainian cities alive when Russian forces target energy infrastructure.

Through these evocative audio experiences, “What Does War Sound Like?” offered a moment of reflection and connection, reminding attendees of the daily realities faced by millions of Ukrainians. The exhibit underscored the enduring resilience of Ukraine and its people while galvanizing support for peace and justice.

This event in Ottawa is part of ongoing efforts to ensure the world does not forget the human cost of Russia’s aggression and to amplify the voices of those fighting for freedom and survival.

Special thank you to Diana Babii for her initiative and organization.

Photo credit: Roksolana Duda