The Illinois branch of the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA) solemnly marked the 106th anniversary of the Act of Unification between the Ukrainian People's Republic and the Western Ukrainian People's Republic. The event took place on January 26, 2025, at the Ukrainian Cultural Center in Chicago, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of UCCA in Illinois, highlighting five decades of advocacy for Ukraine.
The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, Illinois Division, commemorated the Declaration of Independence of January 22, 1918 as well as the 106th anniversary of the Act of Union uniting the Ukrainian People's Republic and the Western Ukrainian People's Republic. This special event honored these two important events in the history of Ukraine and acknowledged the grand culmination of UCCA's 50th Anniversary celebrations.
The Act of Unification, declared on January 22, 1919, in Kyiv, symbolized the aspiration for a united Ukraine despite subsequent occupations. This spirit endured, notably demonstrated on January 22, 1990, when millions formed a human chain from Kyiv to Lviv. Today, Ukraine remains at the center of geopolitics, defending its sovereignty in a brutal war.
The Chicago event underscored the historical and contemporary significance of unity, featuring speeches from UCCA Illinois President Dr. Maria Dmytriv-Kapenak, Congressmen Mike Quigley and Danny Davis, former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor, and Ukrainian MP Oleksandra Ustinova. Taylor emphasized Ukraine’s need for NATO membership to secure lasting peace.
Dignitaries, including Ukrainian Consul General Serhiy Koledov and representatives from various U.S. states, honored Ukrainian soldiers receiving treatment in the U.S. and volunteers supporting Ukraine. Awards were presented to community activists and organizations, including Ukrainian-American Media Group, Inc., and Revived Soldiers Ukraine.
UCCA, founded in 1940, has played a crucial role in uniting and advocating for Ukrainian Americans. The Illinois branch, established in 1974, continues its mission under new leadership. The celebration reaffirmed the community’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and the enduring strength of Ukrainian unity.