For Ukrainians, independence is not just a word; it is woven into our genetic code. For centuries, we have fought for our freedom, and on August 24, 1991, Ukraine became an independent, free country. Thirty-three years later, we continue to celebrate this significant date, honoring the resilience of our nation and the collective pursuit of freedom, dignity, and prosperity that unites us all.
This year’s Independence Day celebration took place in the heart of Ukrainian Village, adjacent to the Ukrainian Cultural Center. The event began with Ukrainian-American veterans from Post 32, led by Commander Peter Bencak, marching into the crowd as Olga Tsyntarna sang the American and Ukrainian national anthems. A profound sense of sadness filled the air as a solemn procession of six girls clad in Ukrainian ethnic dress carried portraits of fallen soldiers from the ongoing war with Russia. With heads bowed, we remembered these brave defenders while Bishop Venedykt and parish priests offered a memorial prayer for all the young lives lost in the fight for freedom. The event was expertly directed by MCs Ihor Diaczun and Maria Klimchak.
President Dr. Mariya Dmytriv-Kapeniak paid tribute to all those who died fighting for Ukraine's independence and spoke passionately about the importance of protecting democracy. "Everyone should take a page from Ukraine's book and not be afraid of Putin. The future belongs to the brave. Protect democracy, because democracy means freedom for all. A Ukrainian victory is a victory for democracy."
Consul General of Ukraine in Chicago, Serhiy Koledov, congratulated everyone on this special holiday, expressed gratitude to the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, Illinois Division, for organizing the event, and emphasized the crucial role of the Ukrainian community in supporting our defenders. He stressed that only through unity can we defeat the enemy and preserve Ukrainian independence for future generations.
Dr. Maria Korkatsch-Groszko read a proclamation from Governor Jay Pritzker, declaring August 24, 2024, as "Ukrainian Independence Day in the State of Illinois."
The cultural program featured performances by Olga Tsyntarna, Lidiya Okilko, Volodymyr Okilko, Smart Minds, Marta Fraser, Evelina Vivcharyk, the vocal studio Elegiya led by Lana Polyak, the groups Smile and Melody, Vadym Krasnoooky (a Ukrainian singer, actor, and frontman of the rock band Mad Heads), and the choir of the Ukrainian American Youth Association who always give a beautiful perforrmance.
After the program, participants joined hands along Chicago Avenue, forming a Live Unity Chain that stretched for many blocks. Holding posters with our message they chanted, "Victory for Ukraine Victory for Democracy!"
The commemoration concluded with a fundraising concert, "Ukrainian Heart of America," organized by the Help Heroes of Ukraine Foundation.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this day memorable and celebrated Ukraine's independence.
Slava Ukraini! Heroyam Slava!