A commemoration ceremony honoring the millions of Ukrainians who perished during the Holodomor genocide of 1932–1933, perpetrated by Moscow, was held at the Texas State Capitol. The event was organized by UNWLA Branch 147.
According to UNWLA Branch 147.
“Today Russia and Putin are once again committing genocide against Ukrainians with the aim of destroying us as an ethnic group and as a nation,” said Branch 147 member Darya Ledesma.
As reported, Ukrainian artists Yana Nikutina and Iryna Lyshchynska presented paintings and an emotional 3D installation that conveyed the tragedy and silent pain of those years, reminding attendees of the terrible price Ukraine paid.
The ceremony program also included artistic performances. Singer Oleksandra Pelitu, accompanied by the Cantastoria Choir under the direction of Stephen Tyler, delivered a moving vocal performance. Young Katherine Kramer performed the song “Bila Topoli,” and the dance ensemble “Sonyashnyk” presented the dance “Metelytsya,” symbolically recalling the harsh winter of 1932–1933.
“Only the complete defeat of Russia and Putin, and a just peace for Ukraine, can put an end to this suffering,” emphasized Kate Voinova, President of UNWLA Branch 147.
According to the organizers, the invited speaker at the ceremony was Michael Herrera, a representative of the Mayor’s Office of Leander, Texas. After the formal portion of the event, guests viewed an art exhibition featuring works by Yana Nikutina and Iryna Lyshchynska.
“We thank Pierce Lind for attending every event and for the photos and videos that help preserve our history; Marina Tyler Chernenko and her husband for the wonderful choir performance; Marina Koval, who prepared traditional Ukrainian wreaths featuring Holodomor symbolism (black and red flowers). We also express gratitude to the volunteers and members of UNWLA Branch 147 in Austin and San Antonio for their dedication to our common cause,” concluded Kate Voinova.
Photo: Pierce Lind
Author: Inna Mikhno