AUSTIN, Texas — As Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continues, several Texans have held protests rallying to support Ukraine.
A big change from an Eastern European Bar and Restaurant in Travis County is not only grabbing people’s attention but also giving them hope.
Varda Monanmour takes pride in her heritage. That’s why she opened her restaurant in Austin.
“Here to Texas, I wanted to create an island of my culture including Russia, Ukraine, Armenia and post-Soviet states and Slavic countries,” said Monanmour.
However, following Russia’s attack on Ukraine, she found her restaurant’s name, Russian House, came with great pain. So she changed it, and her restaurant is now called “The House.”
“Because we wanted to make sure everyone feels safe and comforted here,” said Monanmour. Staying away from politics and concentrating on things that bring us together, not set us apart.”
The big change has provided a sense of hope for people like Anna Chudleigh, who stopped by just to see for herself.
“I just, I think it’s really sad what’s going on in Ukraine and basically I’ve been praying every night and hope that there’s peace,” Chudleigh said.
Monanmour is grateful for the opportunity to do what she can to help.
“We’re going through hard times and our job is to spread peace and day by day do one good thing for someone who is in pain or suffers,” said Monanmour.
Adding to their efforts, The House announced on their Facebook Page that they plan to donate proceeds from Ukrainian dishes and Ukranian vodka to The Red Cross to support those in need.