In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, UNWLA Branch 10 organized a screening of the documentary "People of Steel" and a meeting with its director, Serhiy Fomenko. The event brought together the Ukrainian community, activists and concerned viewers at St. Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church, where the audience had the opportunity not only to view the film, a true story of the struggle of the Ukrainian defenders of Mariupol, but also to participate in the discussion and charitable initiative.
This was reported by the event organizer UNWLA, Branch 10.
"Our branch was honored to host a screening of the film "People of Steel" and a meeting with its producer Serhiy Fomenko (@fomamandry). This documentary tells the true story of people who had no chance of survival in Mariupol, but fought until their last breath. It is a story about those who held the line until they were ordered to lay down their arms to save the wounded, about the medics and civilians who became victims of the attacks and the occupation," UNWLA said.
The film "People of Steel" tells the story of 86 days of unbreakable resistance - the heroism of the Ukrainian military that held the defense of Mariupol, protecting not only the city, but the integrity of Ukraine and its people. Through the lens of the camera, the audience was able to feel the atmosphere of war through the eyes of the soldiers themselves, their dedication, courage and pain of loss.
"The main message of this documentary is that almost three years have passed and hundreds of people are still in Russian captivity. They are prisoners of war (POWs), but without any of the rights and safety guarantees provided by the Geneva Convention. They are denied access to international human rights organizations, including the Ukrainian Red Cross. The people who died - military, medics, civilians - gave their lives so that today we can enjoy the right to freedom of speech, religion and independence," the UNWLA added.
Serhiy Fomenko, the film's producer and a well-known Ukrainian musician, leader of the folk-rock band Mandry, personally addressed the audience after the screening. He told the story of the film's creation and talked about the importance of this project for Ukraine.
The screening was not only cultural, but also charitable: UNWLA Branch 10 is raising funds to purchase a portable ultrasound machine for Ukrainian military doctors. Thanks to the donations of the event's participants, it will be possible to provide life-saving diagnostic assistance on the front lines.
UNWLA Branch 10 would like to thank everyone who attended the screening, supported the event, and contributed to helping the military.
The film will continue to gather viewers in different cities of the United States to tell the truth about the heroism of Ukrainians and to support those who are fighting for our freedom.
The trailer of the film "People of Steel" can be viewed link
Author: Inna Mikhno