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Anniversary of Ukraine’s independence takes on new meaning

This event took on a great deal of added significance for many following the Russian invasion of Ukraine six months ago.
Ukraine Independence_result
The Ukrainian Flag was proudly displayed outside the Ukrainian Heritage Museum in Canora on Aug. 24 to commemorate the 31st anniversary of the Independence of Ukraine. Joining in the occasion, from left, were (standing) Taras Korol, Ken and Carol Woloschuk, Councillor Denise Leslie, Harold Woloschuk, Audrey Hrycak, Vadym and Iryna Zaika, Dobr. Nataliya Tsenova, Rev. Petro Tsenov, Dorothy Korol and Bernard Marchinko; and (seated) Stella Diakow and Rose Remenda. A number of the participants were wearing traditional vyshyvanka or embroidered shirts to mark the event.

CANORA - On August 24, a number of local residents and family members gathered at the Ukrainian Heritage Museum in Canora to wave the Ukrainian Flag and celebrate Ukraine’s independence. They joined Ukrainians across the globe to celebrate the milestone. Everyone seemed to be in agreement that this event took on a great deal of added significance following the Russian invasion of Ukraine six months ago.

“On August 24, 1991, Ukraine's Parliament, exercising the inviolable right of the Ukrainian people to self-determination, declared Ukraine an indivisible, democratic, independent state,” stated information provided by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress.

“Today, the freedom of the Ukrainian people and Ukraine’s statehood is defended by the courageous men and women of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, who protect their country from Russia’s war of aggression. As we celebrate Ukraine’s independence, we pay tribute to those whose bravery and valour made it possible, and to those who safeguard that independence today. May God protect them.

“Since the beginning of Russia’s genocidal war against Ukraine, the Ukrainian Canadian community has stood with its brothers and sisters in Ukraine,” continued the information. “Throughout these incredibly difficult last months, Ukrainian Canadians have financially supported Ukrainian civilians, represented Ukrainian interests in Canada, and have made incredible efforts to welcome and support refugees coming to Canada. Our Stand With Ukraine campaign has support in all Canadian provinces and territories – from Prince Edward Island to the Yukon.”

“We thank everyone who has done what you can to support Ukraine in this difficult time.

“This year, we have partnered with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to encourage local leaders to participate in a special Day of Action to show support and solidarity for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people by raising the Ukrainian flag, and lighting public monuments, buildings and signs in blue and yellow on August 23 and 24. Let us come together to express our support for Ukraine.!”