Cambridge celebrates 33 years of independent Ukraine on King’s Parade
The 33rd anniversary of Ukraine’s independence was celebrated on King’s Parade on Saturday, offering a powerful insight into the history and culture of the Ukrainian people past and present.
The event brought strong support from local and international friends, as well as official guests including Daniel Zeichner MP, executive city councillor for communities Rachel Wade (Lab, West Chesterton) and Cllr Nadya Lokhmotova (Lib Dem, Trumpington).
Extensive preparations by Ukrainian HAM (Heritage, Art and Music) Centre members took place every day for two weeks. The result saw a huge variety of vibrant Ukrainian folk costumes, the iconic blue and yellow flags, and “above all, the unwavering Ukrainian spirit”, said those on the iconic Cambridge street on a rainy afternoon.
The performances featured 11th-century Kievan Rus princesses, hetmans - the rulers of the 15th-17th century Ukrainian state- and even witches. These performers were amateur Ukrainian actors, many of whom are refugees who sought safety in Cambridge following the Russian invasion launched in February 2022.
Among them was Vladislav Buryak, a 16-year-old who portrayed a hetman. Vladislav received national press coverage after surviving 90 days in Russian captivity after fleeing Melitopol before being released in a hostage exchange. He is one of a generation “talented, creative, and mature beyond their years”, said a Ukrainian HAM Centre spokesperson.
A powerful moment occurred when the modern-day heroes, combat medics Solomia and Sofiia Artemchuk of the Hospitaliers Battalion, shared their experiences of saving lives on the front line of the war between the Ukrainian military and the invading Russian forces.
Their stories were a poignant reminder of the vital importance of support at both governmental and individual levels. They highlighted the importance of continued aid, from essential medical supplies to financial donations.
The sisters told the crowd: “Ukrainians are often referred to as an unbreakable nation. We are strong, it’s true, but unfortunately, we are also breakable. Any person can be broken and destroyed; it’s only a matter of time. So, we really do need you and your support.”
“Despite the truly miserable weather on August 24, nothing could stand in the way of the celebration of the Ukraine’s Independence Day,” said Alla Madich, the founder and driving force behind the Ukrainian HAM Centre.
