UKRAINIAN INDEPENDENCE- ONCE AGAIN WE PRAY

 

Tomorrow is INDEPENDENCE DAY in the UKRAINE. It is the most significant state holiday, which commemorates the “Declaration of Sovereignty” of Ukraine. Before the Russian invasion  one and a half years ago, Ukrainians gathered in their city squares or went to Kyiv. There were special patriotic concerts, events, and meetings all over the country. It is also the feast of the apostle, St. Bartholomew.

Last year, celebration of the holiday was restricted within war-torn Ukraine under martial law, but large scale celebration of Ukraine's Independence was held internationally in support of the country. 

Within the United Kingdom, Independence Day saw a significant celebration from the estimated 100,000 Ukrainian refugees in the kingdom, and parades in support of Ukraine and protests condemning Russia were both held.

In Germany, a parade was held in Berlin, where a candlelight vigil was set up in front of the Brandenburg Gate. Chancellor Olaf Scholz assured support, stating that Germany "stands firmly by the side of the threatened Ukraine today and for as long as Ukraine needs our support," and rebuked the Kremlin for its 

In Poland, thousands of Polish citizens and Ukrainian refugees gathered in the city centers of Warsaw and Kraków in celebration and support. The Palace of Culture and Science was illuminated in Ukrainian blue and yellow.

In our own country  and Canada, there many celebrations and prayers, especially in areas with a great population of Ukrainians.

Due to the on-going war, celebrations once again will be only in nations who support Ukraine's fight for freedom.

                                                Maria Prymachenko

This year, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, proclaimed August 24, 2023, as Ukrainian Independence Day and urges all citizens to join in commemorating this important anniversary. “On this day, let us recommit ourselves to helping the Ukrainian nation reclaim full sovereignty over its international borders and remember the heroes who sacrificed their lives to ensure freedom and happiness for future generations.”

In spite of attempts by Russia to subordinate and strip Ukraine of any form of its national identity and culture, the country remains standing and a glowing example for the democratic world to follow.