The Ukrainian community of Hampton Roads, Virginia, held an annual picnic to mark the 35th anniversary of the restoration of Ukraine’s independence. A highlight of this year’s event was the inclusion of regional pavilions, which showcased the culture, traditions, and crafts of various parts of Ukraine. Attendees also honored fallen Ukrainian defenders and urged American policymakers to continue supporting Ukraine.
This was reported by Tidewater Ukrainian Cultural Association.
An annual event for the Ukrainian community took place in Virginia Beach, dedicated to the 35th anniversary of the restoration of Ukraine’s independence. The organizers emphasized the importance of unity among Ukrainians during the full-scale war, as well as the need to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom.
The program began with a moment of silence in honor of fallen Ukrainian defenders. Anna Makhorkina was among the guests of honor. Attendees also heard a rendition of the "Prayer for Ukraine," performed by Nikita Panasiuk, who left Ukraine for the United States due to the war.
Regional Pavilions Showcase Ukrainian Culture
For the first time, the event featured regional pavilions, allowing visitors to explore different parts of Ukraine in a single day. Each pavilion highlighted the unique characteristics of its respective region, including local crafts, songs, and traditions.
The organizers noted that Ukraine’s cultural diversity is one of its greatest strengths. Through regional exhibits, participants could see how local customs and traditions come together to form a shared Ukrainian cultural heritage.
A quiz about Ukraine also took place, during which participants discussed regional linguistic nuances and the various word choices used in different parts of the country.
Another part of the program was a culinary competition called the "Battle of Borshch." Participants presented various versions of this traditional Ukrainian dish, rooted in family recipes and regional traditions.
The community reached out to American politicians
During the event, members of the Ukrainian community spoke with American politicians and public figures, including Congresswoman Jen Kiggans, representatives from Elaine Luria’s team, congressional candidate Matt Baker, Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer, and a representative from the organization Razom for Ukraine.
The community urged Congresswoman Jen Kiggans to support Lindsey Graham’s bill regarding sanctions against Russia and Iran. According to the organizers, Kiggans voted in favor of the bill a week after the event.
Additionally, participants asked Mayor Bobby Dyer to once again illuminate municipal buildings in Virginia Beach with the colors blue and yellow. The city had previously done so at the community's request in the fall of 2022.
The organizers expressed their gratitude to the volunteers, the teams manning the regional pavilions, the participants in the culinary competition, the photographers, and the partners and sponsors who helped make the event possible. Partners who contributed prizes for the raffle included Glen & Nadya Photography, Wood Auto Dealership, Iryna Shkremetko Massage, Baladi Mediterranean Cafe, and Operation Brew.
In their statement, the organizers emphasized that the gathering served as an opportunity for Ukrainians and their American friends to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine and support the local Ukrainian community.
Photo: Tidewater Ukrainian Cultural Association
Author: Danylo Pievchev