MADISON, Ala. (WHNT) — On Saturday afternoon, dozens of people gathered together to celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day in Madison.
It was August 24th, 1991 when Ukraine became an independent country from the Soviet Union. With an ongoing war against Russia, where Ukraine is defending its independence, event organizers say it is important to celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day.
“We really value our independence, it’s so important to us, especially now, when Ukraine is fighting for it’s freedom,” organizer and volunteer Yuliya Keener said.
She told News 19 that Ukrainian Independence Day hits close to home for her, because she lost family members in the fight.
“It’s very important, especially for me personally because my grandfather and great grandfather literally fought for independence for Ukraine during Soviet times,” Keener said.
Keener said that the Ukrainian community across North Alabama is strong. She said the freedoms that Ukrainian people are celebrating today are why they continue to fight against Russia.
“We want to have our land, we want to have freedom of speech, we want to live peacefully and happily,” she said.
Saturday’s event included the singing of both the United States and Ukrainian national anthems, songs, poems, and words of encouragement.
“We’re happy to support each other and we’re happy to support Ukraine,” Keener said.
The war between Russia and Ukraine has now gone on for more than 1,200 days.
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