Rockland County Ukrainians celebrate (09/26/04)

THE 13th ANNIVERSARY OF UKRAINE'S INDEPENDENCE

Rockland County Ukrainians celebrate

by Vasyl Luchkiw

SPRING VALLEY, N.Y. - The local Ukrainian American community of Rockland County in the state of New York marked Ukrainian Independence Day on Sunday, August 22, with a divine liturgy, followed by a "panakhyda" (memorial service) for all those who gave their lives in the fight for the liberation of Ukraine. Members of Ukrainian American Veterans Post 19 formed an honor guard during the service with national flags and post colors.

After the church services, the community gathered at the county legislative complex to continue the celebration of the 13th anniversary of Ukraine's independence. At noon, the commander of UAV post 19, Vasyl Szozda, a Vietnam war veteran, raised the blue-and-yellow flag of Ukraine about the county complex as all gathered sang the Ukrainian national anthem.

The keynote speaker was Dr. Vasyl Luchkiw, advisor of the Ukrainian National Association and past national commander of the Ukrainian American Veterans. He underscored that today, the eyes of the world are focused on Ukraine as the election of the country's next president is scheduled for October 31.

He said that the world, especially the United States, instead of leading the way and showing Ukraine the way to democracy is threatening the young country with resolutions and sanctions.

"And how about us," he asked, "the Western diaspora? What are we doing to help Ukraine? ... It seems we are resigned to the philosophy of 'poor Ukraine.' "

"Ukraine requires very strong and positive action from all of us. We must, by our voting power, influence, indeed demand from presidential candidates in our chosen countries of residence that they help Ukraine to conquer its present crises," Dr. Luchkiw continued.

A brief welcoming address was delivered by Theodore Dusanenko, a Rockland County legislator of Ukrainian descent, and the Vesna folk dance ensemble performed several dances.

After the brief program, UAVeterans invited all present to an anniversary picnic.

| Home Page |