Giving Meaning to Ukraine Independence Day |
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After centuries of being ruled by various foreign powers, including the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union, Ukraine Independence Day represents a crucial milestone in the nation's history, symbolizing the restoration of its sovereignty and the right to self-determination. Independence Day serves as an occasion for Ukrainians to celebrate and reinforce their national identity, culture, and traditions. It is an opportunity for the nation to come together and reflect on its past struggles and achievements and it's of special significance now that the country is quite literary fighting to preserve its independence. Ukraine's independence is of considerable geopolitical importance, given its strategic location in Eastern Europe. The country's independence has implications for regional stability, international relations, and its role in various organizations and alliances. Independence Day is a time for remembering and honoring those who fought for Ukraine, including the activists, intellectuals, and ordinary citizens who contributed to the nation's liberation. It also provides an opportunity for reflection on the challenges faced and progress made since gaining independence. Scroll down to view the list of known Arizona events happening on or around August 24th, 2023 in honor of Ukraine's Independence Day. |
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Upcoming Events Honoring Ukraine Independence Day |
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| | Campground Vigil and Bonfire for the Fallen Heroes. August 18th-20th. RSVP required by contacting Yuriy Melnyk or visiting the event page on Facebook. |
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| | Independence Day Motorcade in Scottsdale. August 26th, 9am-11am. More details to come soon. Save the date and start collecting your patriotic car flare! |
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| | Community event. You are invited to Ukraine Independence Day observance and honoring the fallen at the Ukrainian Cultural Center on August 27th, 12:30pm. |
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Radiant Unity: Light Up for Ukraine's Independence |
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In honor of the upcoming Independence Day and as part of the international initiative, Cactus and Tryzub team is working on lighting up Phoenix in blue and yellow on August 24th. Look for these structures around the Phoenix area to display blue and yellow in solidarity with Ukraine on Independence Day: Fountain Hills Fountain, Trovea Castle at Carraro Heights, The Compass rooftop grill at the Hyatt, Gilbert Water Tower, Arizona State Capitol building and others. And guess what, you can also join the Radiant Unity: Light up for Ukraine's Independence initiative by proudly displaying blue and yellow lights or night flag on your house. If you wish to go an extra mile, why not get your neighbors to join! |
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In the Spotlight - Max Tovstyi |
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Ukrainian guitarist Max Tovstyi is playing his biggest show in the US and you have to be there for Max's career hallmark. Max often speaks out against the war in Ukraine while on stage. You can listen to Max and his band The Heavy Crawls at the Marquee Theatre on August, 12th when they open for a Led Zeppelin tribute band, Zoso. The tickets are only 20$. Don't forget to fly a Ukrainian flag or wear a patriotic t-shirt at the concert. For tickets, contact Max directly through his Facebook page. | | |
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Ukrainian Films Featured in Arizona |
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Two Ukrainian films will be featured at the Alice Gill-Sheldon Theatre in Sedona in the month of August. Drama Klondike (2020) captures the story of a Ukrainian family living on the border of Russia and Ukraine during the start of the war in 2014. When the village becomes quickly occupied and captured by armed forces, people there find themselves at the center of an international air crash catastrophe on July 17, 2014. Klondike will be featured from August 4th - August 9th. Highly acclaimed film by the Pulitzer prize-winning Ukrainian journalist Mstyslav Chernov 20 Days in Mariupol (2023) is also coming to Sedona. "The Associated Press team of Ukrainian journalists trapped in the besieged city of Mariupol struggle to continue their work documenting atrocities of the Russian invasion. As the only international reporters who remain in the city, they capture what later become defining images of the war: dying children, mass graves, the bombing of a maternity hospital, and more." 20 Days in Mariupol will be featured from August 25th - August 31st. For more information, show times and tickets, please contact the Alice Gill-Sheldon Theatre in Sedona. Stay tuned for Phoenix premiers of both films. |
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On September 10th-14th, 2023 Majestic Theaters in Tempe will be hosting a special event Spotlight on Europe: Cinema Fantastique. Cactus and Tryzub was invited to recommend a Ukrainian film for the feature. We are happy to announce that the highly anticipated animated film "Mavka. The Forest Song" was accepted by the festival committee for a one-time screening on September 10th at 2pm. | | |
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In the Spotlight - BraЇvery Boutique |
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BraЇvery Boutique is dedicated to introducing Ukrainian designers and brands to American audience. Think of BraЇvery Boutique as a masterfully curated fashion collection aimed at showcasing the talent, creativity, and unique designs by Ukrainian fashion artists. The collection's main pillars are expression, storytelling, and cultural preservation. The BraЇvery Boutique invites you to immerse yourself in the world of Ukrainian brand designers, experience its unique beauty and craftsmanship and explore cultural richness through color, texture and design. Use a promotion code Bravery10 at check out for a 10% off your total purchase. Disclaimer: BraЇvery Boutique is proudly owned by Cactus and Tryzub's co-founder Oli Nevins. A percentage of proceeds is donated to various Ukraine-oriented causes. |
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Cactus and Tryzub team had an opportunity to be hosted on a local radio show, Voice of Democracy Arizona, with Roman Ulman on Sunday, July 30th. Some of the topics discussed were advocacy priorities, importance of supporting Ukraine and defending democratic principles around the world. Recording of the show will be available on our social media soon. |
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On July 11th, our friends at Treffpunkt hosted the newly appointed Swedish consul Mikael Örn to give an update on Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU). Every six months one of the EU member states holds the Presidency of the Council, also known as the Council of Ministers. Sweden held the Presidency during the first half of 2023. This was our opportunity to learn about the Council of Ministers and to congratulate Swedish members of the Arizona community on being accepted to NATO. |
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A small private gathering to honor the Ivana Kupala holiday was organized by Olya Sverdlova on July 7th. Pier 54 restaurant in Tempe was the place of gathering, offered great food, live music and a beautiful lake for sunset watching. The night ended with ladies launching flower head wreaths in water according with the holiday tradition. |
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This time we say "THANK YOU" to our co-founder Oli Nevins. Oli's unwavering commitment to bringing Ukraine closer to victory through strategic partnerships, advocacy and outreach are making a profound impact. She shows boundless enthusiasm and a can-do attitude in every project she takes on. She has not only brought her skills and expertise to the table but also heart and compassion, which make her an irreplaceable asset to Cactus and Tryzub. |
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The impact of her volunteer work reaches far beyond the immediate tasks she undertakes. She spearheaded efforts behind our most successful fundraisers. Oli has become a role model and an inspiring member of the Ukrainian community of Phoenix and beyond. Her dedication sets the bar high for what it means to be a true volunteer. Her leadership and commitment to the cause continues to motivate all of us. The world needs more compassionate and dedicated individuals like you, and we are deeply grateful for everything you do, dear Oli. |
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