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TIFF Is 'Suspending Participation' By Film Companies & Outlets Supported By Russia

"TIFF stands against the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the declaration of war this signifies."

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The Toronto International Film Festival is now barring participation from any outlet that's backed by the Russian state due to the ongoing invasion in Ukraine.

TIFF issued a statement on March 3 expressing their stance on the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

"TIFF stands against the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the declaration of war this signifies. We hope for a swift return to peace and stability in the region and we extend our support to the people of Ukraine and those within Russia who stand against these attacks," the statement reads.

Since the Toronto-based arts organization recognizes artists' freedom of expression, they will still accept and include films from independent Russian filmmakers at both their international film festival and at their movie theatre, but they won't accept anything else past that.

"TIFF will suspend participation by film organizations and media outlets supported by the Russian state, as well as Russian cultural ambassadors and delegations related to our Festival," TIFF officials wrote.

On top of that, the organization shared that they will look to magnify the voices from Ukrainian filmmakers, as well as independent Russian filmmakers, who highlight and help those not experiencing the conflict first-hand what is currently happening in their countries.

Several other Torontonians have shown their support of Ukraine during these harrowing, war-like times.

A handful of restaurants throughout the 6ix have voiced their support by setting up donation boxes for Ukrainian charities, or contributing a portion (or even all) of their sales to campaigns that directly help Ukrainian people.

Hundreds of Torontonians recently marched along to show their solidarity with Ukraine, and one woman even helped raise over $20,000 to bring teddy bears to Ukrainian kids who fled their country to Poland.

President Vladimir Putin launched a military attack on Ukraine on February 24, and Russian troops have been occupying the country ever since.

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