19 Years of Ukrainian Independence
22 July 2010
Throughout its existence, the Ukrainian community in the United States has dedicated its heart and soul to an independent and democratic Ukrainian state. Through our numerous community organizations, we have diligently monitored events in Ukraine and have always willingly assisted our brethren in their struggle for freedom. Since Ukraine’s restoration of independence on August 24, 1991, our activism within our local communities has focused on the securing of a stable democracy and free market economy in Ukraine, all the while working closely with the Administration and Congress to foster stronger U.S.-Ukraine bilateral relations.
Additionally, the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary of service to the Ukrainian American community, has pledged to continue its efforts toward the betterment of the Ukrainian nation and inform the global community of the truth about Ukraine’s past, long veiled by Soviet lies and propaganda, specifically such atrocities as the Holodomor, Ukraine’s Genocide of 1932-33 which claimed the lives of 7-10 million innocent men, women and children.
In this past year, Ukraine has seen some discouraging setbacks. With the recent election of pro-Russian president, Viktor Yanukovych, the significant success that Ukraine has earned over the past 19 years of independence has fallen into jeopardy. Censorship once again plagues the populace, and the brazen meddling of the Russian government has forced itself into Ukraine’s domestic and foreign policies to such a degree that it is reminiscent of the days of Soviet imperialism. Yet pro-democratic forces in Ukraine have remained vigilant in the struggle to build a democratic nation and secure Ukraine’s freedoms. As members of the Ukrainian Diaspora, we must also remain undaunted, as it falls upon us to support those in Ukraine who rally under the blue and yellow flag of an independent Ukraine against the traitorous actions of those who would see its ultimate ruin.
On the 19th Anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence, the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA), the principle umbrella organization representing the interests of the Ukrainian American community, sends its warmest greetings and salutations to the Ukrainian nation and wishes it wisdom, fortitude and God’s blessing in securing a strong and just democracy. We call upon our community to actively participate in civic and political life within the United States and Ukraine. With your help, Ukraine will overcome the obstacles on its path toward becoming a full-fledged member of the international community of democratic nations.
Glory to Ukraine!
