Progress report 2-8 June
Awarded medal – it’s an honour to receive a medal titled “Braveheart” awarded by the Commander of the Operational-Tactical Group “Kharkiv”, Colonel Viktor Solimchuk for our “active position, patriotism and assistance provided to the units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine during the repulsion and deterrence of the armed aggression of the russian federation.” This award is the recognition of the tireless work that our entire community does every single day to support our brave defenders!
Defend Ukraine Appeal – last week, the DUA team held a fundraiser for drones with Viktor and Nazar – $13,551.60 was raised. This week, drones were purchased, the one and only Tetiana Koldunenko did her magic, and our beautiful Olenka Slipetsky is delivering them with love. As promised, 22nd Brigade and 130th Battalion your birds are on their way to you!
Ukrainian World Congress – Свiтовий Конґрес Українців – attended UWC Board meeting where we discussed and approved the UWC’s budget for the year ahead. Other topics discussed were legislation regarding multiple citizenships, recognition for active supporters of Ukraine, and committee work, including humanitarian aid and global advocacy.
Visa advocacy – the AFUO is preparing for its next round of visa advocacy with the Australian Government and we are currently in the process of creating an important survey that will help us gather the relevant information and present the facts and statistics to the Minister for Immigration. Issues that will be raised with the Minister include those faced by Ukrainian DPs currently on Protection 866 visas, Bridging visas and Parent visas. If there are any other major categories, please make sure they are flagged in the survey!
Coordination calls – our Independence Day committee has been very busy this week, assisting with visa applications for some very special guests and planning additional advocacy events. A special parcel arrived in Australia from our dear friends at Razom for Ukraine – it contains a certain Ukrainian item that is currently the biggest in the world and weighs 183kg! Can’t wait to share it with you.
