The annual celebration of Eastern European cultural heritage took place at the mayor’s residence, Gracie Mansion, organized by the NYC Mayor’s Office of Special Projects and Community Events. This year, special attention was dedicated to Ukraine, marking a symbolic gesture of support from city authorities.
This is reported by the NYC website.
According to the NYC website, the event gathered Ukrainian, Polish, Czech, Jewish, Georgian, Moldovan, and other communities, as well as representatives of the diplomatic corps and New York City police officers with roots in Eastern and Central Europe. New York City Mayor Eric Adams, in his remarks, once again expressed solidarity with Ukraine and called on communities to prioritize their countries of origin. “Your country always comes first. That is what strengthens America, makes New York unique and diverse,” emphasized the mayor.
A highlight of the evening was the performance by Victoria Vennikova, Merited Artist of Ukraine and Honorary Ambassador of Kharkiv to the United States, who sang the folk song “Dva dubky” in a jazz arrangement. As a special exception, organizers gave the stage to the Ukrainian language, underscoring the importance of Ukraine’s culture within the European context. Among the distinguished guests was also Miss Universe Ukraine Alina Ponomarenko.
In a comment, Vennikova noted that the performance was an opportunity to highlight Ukraine’s European identity: “For me, today’s celebration is, above all, about presenting Ukrainian culture in New York as part of European culture,” she told Ukrinform. “Because Ukraine is Europe. Our song had to be heard here today, and it was!”
The singer also admitted that she always feels especially emotional when performing Ukrainian songs in the United States, as she bears a deep responsibility representing her homeland on the international stage. She added that she was delighted Ukrainian music was featured at an event organized by New York City Hall, as it helps strengthen the position of Ukrainian culture among the city’s many diasporas.
Author: Danylo Pievchev