Ukrainian Flag Raising Ceremony at the Daley Plaza, Chicago

On August 21, 2026, Chicago’s Ukrainian community gathered at Daley Plaza for the annual raising of the Ukrainian flag, marking Ukraine Month and commemorating the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s renewed independence.

The ceremony brought together members of the Ukrainian community, diplomats, clergy, veterans, elected officials, and friends of Ukraine. Among those addressing the gathering were Congressman Danny Davis, Chicago Deputy Mayor Beatriz Ponce de Leon, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, and Denys Sienik, Chargé d’Affaires of Ukraine in the United States.

As Ukraine continues its courageous fight for freedom and sovereignty, the blue-and-yellow flag flying in the heart of Chicago carried a meaning far beyond ceremony. It stood as a symbol of Ukraine’s resilience, remembrance of those who have sacrificed for its freedom, and the enduring solidarity between Chicago and Ukraine.

The gathering also reflected the strength of Chicago’s Ukrainian-American community and its generations-long contribution to the civic and cultural life of the city. This year, both Chicago and the State of Illinois recognized August as Ukraine Month, honoring Ukrainian heritage and reaffirming support for Ukraine and its people.

For Chicago’s Ukrainian community, seeing the Ukrainian flag rise above Daley Plaza was a powerful reminder: Ukraine’s flag continues to fly proudly—in Ukraine, in Chicago, and wherever people stand for freedom.