BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Members of the Ukrainian American community in Bethlehem, Pa., and the greater Lehigh Valley gathered at Bethlehem City Hall Plaza on August 21 to commemorate Ukrainian Independence Day.
Mistress of ceremonies Oksana Kipa led the program, which began with the raising of the American and Ukrainian flags by members of Ukrainian American Veterans Post 42, the singing of the two national anthems and a prayer by Archpriest Daniel Gurovich. A proclamation from Bethlehem’s mayor was presented by his chief of staff.
Alex Shnaydruk delivered the main address on “The Resilience of the Ukrainian People,” Bohdanna Polianska sang “Mamyna Sorochka,” and Luka Chorwat recited “A Child’s Prayer.” A special highlight was the participation of violinist Innesa Tymochko Dekajlo, who entertained attendees after her formal performance during the program. Children from the community presented bouquets to the program participants.
In a separate event held on August 24, Jaroslaw Chorwat led a commemorative program at City Hall in Allentown, Pa. The program included a flag raising by members of UAV Post 42, a speech by Mr. Chorwat and the presentation of proclamations from Allentown’s mayor and the district’s congressman.