The Ukrainian American community is proud and fortunate to live in one of the world's most developed democratic nations. We could not have wished for a better home. The United States welcomed us and allowed us to preserve our cultural heritage and identity, develop a strong community, and integrate into the American society as equal members. Because of the freedoms guaranteed by the United States, we have had the opportunity to voice our opinions as well as those of the 50 million Ukrainians who were trapped behind the Iron Curtain during the years of communist oppression.

It is because of this that the Ukrainian American community considers it extremely important that a monument to the millions of innocent victims of the Famine-Genocide be built in our nation's capital. Standing in Washington, D.C., a symbol of democracy and liberty, the monument will serve as a reminder to all who have, or continue to, suffer under oppressive regimes. It is crucial that such chapters of world history be known and remembered. Knowledge gives us the power to foresee future tragedies and intervene before it is too late. The United States is a bastion of freedom and democracy and it is our task to continue fighting until freedom reigns supreme everywhere. In last year’s statement on the occasion of the 69^th anniversary of the Famine-Genocide, President George W. Bush wrote: "Now better than ever, we recognize the Ukrainian people’s heroic struggle nearly 70 years ago, in which millions died because they resisted Stalin’s brutal regime. We honor their memory and pledge to never forget their suffering. As we remember their struggle, we also condemn all authoritarian governments who have terrorized their people in the past and continue to do so, thus continuing the fight for freedom and safety of all people."

Read the entire testimony of UCCA President M. Sawkiw Jr Before National Capital Memorial Commission of the National Park Service by clicking Here.