Ukrainian Canadians mark solemn Independence Day, while Carney Kyiv visits
Prime Minister Mark Carney and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy participate in a joint press conference at Mariinskyi Palace in Kiev, Ukraine on Sunday, August 24.
Sean Kilpatrick/The Canadian Press
As Ukraine celebrated its Independence Day, the Ukrainian community in Alberta gathered to commemorate the occasion, reflecting on the ongoing struggles for sovereignty back home. Anastasiya Kvashyna, who immigrated to Alberta from Ukraine as a child, expressed mixed emotions on this significant day.
“I have a lot of family in Ukraine, and it’s always an emotional roller coaster,” said Kvashyna. “This day holds a special place in my heart, especially as Ukraine continues to fight for its independence.”
Tanya Marchenko, a board member of the Alberta Branch of the Ukraine Museum of Canada, noted the solemn yet hopeful atmosphere at the festival, particularly when she learned that Prime Minister Mark Carney was also celebrating in Kiev alongside President Zelenskyy.
Marchenko emphasized the strong historical ties between Canada and Ukraine, highlighting Canada’s early recognition of Ukrainian independence and the ongoing support for the Ukrainian community in Alberta.
The president of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress – Alberta Provincial Council, Orysia Boychuk, underscored the deep partnership between Canada and Ukraine, especially during times of conflict and uncertainty.
During his visit to Kiev, Carney expressed Canada’s unwavering solidarity with Ukraine, hinting at the possibility of Canadian troops providing security assistance on the ground.
Alexandra Chyczij, president of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, praised Carney’s speech as a pivotal moment for the diaspora and reiterated the importance of commemorating Ukraine’s journey to independence.
Across Canada, various events were held to honor Ukraine’s Independence Day, with political leaders in Saskatchewan and New Brunswick expressing their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Reflecting on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, community members like Marchenko remained hopeful for a peaceful resolution and expressed confidence in Ukraine’s resilience.
