Ukrainian communities around the world are preparing to celebrate one of Ukraine’s newest public holidays, known as Defenders Day, on Oct. 1.
This important national holiday is dedicated to honoring those who courageously defend Ukraine from the enemy.
The date, October 1, is chosen for a reason: it coincides with the Christian holiday of the Protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Day of Ukrainian Cossacks, highlighting the deep traditions of defending the homeland.
UWC materials for events and rallies that will commemorate the holiday have already been prepared. They include a NATO membership accession invitation, comprehensive support for Ukraine and its people, and collective action against the Russian aggressor. Resources for use can be found here.
Ukrainians in Czechia will gather for a rally on Oct. 1 at Prague’s Old Town Square.
“We emphasize: the fight for independence continues, and the defenders of Ukraine (which include not only Ukrainians but also volunteers from the international legion, including Czechs) are still on the front lines, risking their lives for peace and freedom. This is a call for unity, for each of us to be a strong support and to continue backing our military,” the Voice of Ukraine nonprofit group said. Details about the event can be found here.
Ukrainians in Denmark will celebrate Defenders Day in the city of Odense and will feature art therapy for military personnel and adults, art classes for children, themed activities, and food samples of the Cossack kulish, a millet porridge. The address and time of the event can be found here.
The Ukrainian Association in Finland (UAF) will hold a march in Helsinki to honor Ukrainian defenders.
“Join us in paying tribute to the men and women who risk their lives defending Ukraine, and in doing so, protecting the entirety of Europe from Russian aggression,” the association wrote.
Most of them are not professional soldiers, the organization said.
“They were forced to leave behind their peaceful lives and take up arms to defend their country. Come together to express our gratitude to the Ukrainian defenders and remind the global community of the vital importance of supporting Ukraine until victory is achieved,” the text reads.
Details about the event can be found here.
Ukrainians in Argentina will hold a patriotic event and a candle-lighting ceremony in front of portraits of fallen soldiers on Oct. 5, the Prosvita Ukrainian Cultural Society in Argentina anounced.
“We do not have the sorrow of strangers. The pain of loss is something we, Ukrainians, must share and endure together,” the organizers wrote.
They asked attendees to bring pictures of relatives, friends, and loved ones who have perished in this terrible war so that “together with the children, we can honor their bright memory.”
“Our strength lies in unity, in memory, and in our fury against the enemy!” the organizers said.
Details can be found here.
The Ukrainian Cultural Society in Hungary will hold a demonstration in front of the Russian Embassy in Budapest, the nation’s capital.
“Dear Ukrainians! Esteemed Hungarian friends! Join us tomorrow, on Oct. 1, for a demonstration at the Russian Embassy! at 6 p.m. Your support is needed for Ukraine! Glory to Ukraine and its Heroes!” wrote Jaroszlava Hartyányi, UWC Second Vice President.
Protests will also be held outside the Russian Embassy in London.
“Ukrainian defenders stand for us, for Ukraine, for victory! And we should show our solidarity with them and demonstrate to the rest of the world that we will not fold. We will persevere in our fight, and that democracy and peace will prevail,” wrote the Support Ukraine/London Euromaidan organization. Details about the event can be found here.
The Edinburgh branch of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain will unveil the first memorial plaque at St. Andrew’s Ukrainian Catholic Church on Dalmeny Street. A divine liturgy will also take place in the Scottish capital. Details can be found here.
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