UCCA marks 85 years of community leadership

The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA) marked its 85th anniversary with a solemn celebration held in the United States Senate – a fitting setting for an organization at the highest levels of the U.S. government. 

The event brought together members of Congress, Ukrainian diplomats, diaspora leaders – including UWC President Paul Grod – and international allies, underscoring UCCA’s pivotal vocal voice for Ukraine in Washington since 1940. 

“On behalf of Ukrainians worldwide, I congratulate UCCA on 85 years of successful leadership. Today, as Ukraine fights Russia’s full-scale invasion, the experienced and influential Ukrainian American community, united by UCCA, is critically important in defending Ukraine’s interests and supporting its struggle,” said Grod.

“Honored to be joined by Senator Richard Blumenthal and Congressman Joe Wilson. Honored to present you with the highest UCCA Award — The Shevchenko Freedom Award for your dedication and leadership,” wrote Andriy Futey, UCCA’s Special Envoy for Ukraine affairs and president of the organization from 2016 to 2024.

Ukraine’s Ambassador to the U.S., Oksana Markarova, reflected on UCCA’s historic legacy: “This is not just an organization that observed history — it helped shape it. From aiding post-WWII displaced persons to securing recognition of the Holodomor as genocide, UCCA has stood as a reliable partner for Ukraine and its people.”

Founded on May 24, 1940, at the first Congress of Ukrainians in America in Washington, D.C., UCCA  delegates became the first and only body authorized to speak on behalf of all Americans of Ukrainian descent. 

Today, it unites approximately 30 Ukrainian-American organizations and continues its advocacy on Capitol Hill and across the country. 

The UWC, which UCCA co-founded, expressed pride in the milestone. 

“For 85 years, UCCA has stood as a cornerstone of our global movement for Ukrainian freedom, dignity, and democracy,” Grod said.