On 16 May 2024, Ukrainians around the world will celebrate International Vyshyvanka Day, which helps preserve the Ukrainian identity and the tradition of creating and wearing embroidered clothes.
“The third Thursday of May is important to all Ukrainians — it is when we celebrate and reflect on our Ukrainian identity. It is a day to show our deep pride in Ukrainian culture and traditions like embroidery, which has become even more important since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022,” said Stefan Romaniw, co-chair of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO).
“Celebrating cultural heritage is essential right now — it links the past with the current day and extends forward into the future. We owe it to those Ukrainians who have come before and to all those who will come after to ensure our celebration of culture never ends. Ukrainians are currently fighting for our future and our country’s right to continue to grow its rich culture without interference from Moscow.
“Ukraine is a long way away from Australia but that does not diminish people’s understanding of what Ukrainians are fighting for. The AFUO was delighted this week to celebrate Vyshyvanka Day at the Victorian Parliament. We had MPs and MLAs, ministers and shadow ministers, who represented all sides of politics, all coming out to support Ukrainian culture,” Mr Romaniw said.
💙 Lee Tarlamis MLC and Hon Matthew Guy MP, Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group; 💛 Hon Steve Dimopoulos, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events; 💙 John Pesutto, Leader of the State Opposition; 💛 Michael Galea MLC, Member for South-Eastern Metropolitan; 💙 Jess Wilson, Shadow Minister for Education; 💛 Trung Luu MLC, Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs
“Vyshyvanka Day was also celebrated this year by Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence the Hon Richard Marles MP, who wore his vyshyvanka. Ukraine is incredibly grateful for all that the Minister has done as part of the Albanese Government to deliver much needed military aid to support Ukraine’s fight.
“The AFUO is calling on all in our community to join the celebration by wearing your vyshyvanka to work, university or school on 16 May. Wear it in the streets and to the shops. Take photos with your friends and share it on social media. Be proud and show your support for what Ukrainian defenders are fighting for,” Mr Romaniw concluded.
