Ukrainian communities in various cities in the US organized a number of large-scale and vibrant events for Ukraine’s Independence Day. The celebrations combined prayer, children’s performances, Ukrainian dishes and charity collections to help the defenders of Ukraine.
Prayers and art events in Washington
A prayer and family picnic with children’s performances and Ukrainian cuisine was hosted at St. Andrew’s Cathedral of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Washington. The funds raised will go to support the Ukrainian defenders. At the National Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Holy Family, the service ended with the performance of the Ukrainian anthem and a festive meal for the community.
An important part of the program was the Light Remedies art exhibition by Ukrainian artist Olia Onyshko at Gallery 16TEN – Georgetown, which combined art and activism. There was also a pop-up fair and community meetings dedicated to resilience and freedom.
The final chord was a rally near the White House and a march with a giant Ukrainian flag to the Taras Shevchenko Memorial. The celebration ended with a concert of Ukrainian music and poetry, organized by US Ukrainian Activists.
Picnic in Cloverly
In Cloverly, Maryland was held holiday picnic was held on the grounds of Saint Andrews Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral and the Washington Ukrainian Humanitarian Center in Silver Spring. The program included prayer, musical and children's performances, and a charity collection for turnstiles for the Ukrainian military. Guests were treated to hot dogs, burgers, and drinks.
“Thanks to your generosity, we raised $2,047 to purchase tourniquets!”, the organizers noted. The organizers emphasized that support for Ukraine is especially important now, and every presence and every donation makes a difference.
Picnic at Pamperin Park
A picnic was also held at Pamperin Park in Green Bay, Wisconsin. It was organized by Wisconsin Ukrainians Inc. in conjunction with COMSA and the House of Prayer Church.
“A huge thank you to everyone who came to our picnic today! You helped make this day unforgettable and raised money for an important cause…”, – reported Wisconsin Ukrainians Inc.
Guests were treated to borscht, varenyky, pilaf, potatoes on an open fire with bacon and sausage, as well as sweets. Visitors participated in raffles, children's entertainment, got acquainted with the art of Ukrainian Easter eggs and could purchase souvenirs. A special highlight was the exhibition of Ukrainian Easter eggs by artist Julie B., who presented both authentic ornaments and modern creative designs.
Dances, songs and a call for unity in San Francisco
In San Francisco, an event to celebrate Ukraine Day in Golden Gate Park raised about 600 participants - representatives of the Ukrainian community, Americans and guests of the city. The program included performances by dance ensembles, singing, children's numbers and the playing of brass bands.
The program featured the ensembles "Golden Poppies" and "Leleka", children sang Ukrainian songs, and the Golden Gate Park Band, which has been holding concerts for the community since 1964, performed brass compositions.
The organizers of the holiday were the Ukrainian-American Coordinating Council, the Ukrainian Heritage Club of Northern California and the Northern California branch of the Ukrainian American Union.
Charity concert in support of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in New York
Another charity concert organized by Liberty International Ukraine and Rebirth.Ukraine took place at the Ukrainian People's House in New York. The performances of Ukrainian artists gathered a full hall and united the community around a common goal - to help Ukrainian defenders. The concert program included performances by the Ukrainian Chorus Dumka of New York, singer Valeria Vovk, violinist Raya Rodina and other performers. The atmosphere of the event was filled with sincere emotions, national spirit and gratitude to those who defend Ukraine. As reported, all proceeds will be directed to the purchase of FPV drones, which help save the lives of Ukrainian soldiers on the front.
Author: Inna Mikhno