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Inside: l Kyiv literary elite remembers Shevchenko – page 3 l European Parliament focuses on Ukraine – page 6 l Pysanka debuts at Puerto Rico festival – page 17

ThePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal W non-profit associationeekly Vol. LXXX No. 25 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 $1/$2 in Ukraine Ukraine welcomes Sheva’s double-header against Sweden Euro 2012 visitors puts Ukraine on top of Group D by Zenon Zawada Special to The Ukrainian Weekly KYIV – The Euro 2012 soccer championship, among the most highly sports events watched in the world, kicked off in Ukraine on June 8 as its citizens extended their famous hospitality for tens of thou- sands of visitors amidst political repressions and con- troversies, including corruption and British tabloid stories of racism. So far, the damage repair is impressive, observers said. The Ukraine-Polish border has been smooth, few fights erupted, no injuries to foreigners were report- ed, and the Swedes finally got their long-awaited elec- tricity at their camp on Trukhaniv Island in the Dnipro River in Kyiv. At the same time, an estimated 3,500 soccer fans who bought tickets for the England-France match in Donetsk did not show. German fans had trouble get- ting charitable donations through Ukraine’s notorious- ly rude customs service. And police smothered an opposition protest in front of Olympic Stadium in Kyiv. “A significant push was made in the country’s UEFA.com development and most importantly, we opened Andrii Shevchenko heads in the second goal past a Swedish defender at Olimpiiskyi Stadium in Kyiv on June 11. Ukraine to the entire world during the champion- ship,” said Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, as by Ihor N. Stelmach gave Ukraine an excellent chance to advance from Group D reported by his press service on June 12. after France and England tied 1-1 in their initial match. The tournament also opened the Yanukovych SOUTH WINDSOR, Conn. – It could not have been better Playing in front of a sea of yellow and blue in the packed administration’s political repressions to the world, scripted by any of Hollywood’s top writers. Ukraine got off Olympic Stadium in Kyiv, Shevchenko showed flashes of including the imprisonment of former Prime Minister to a dream start in the Euro 2012 soccer championship as the scorer’s instinct, which made him one of the sport’s top Yulia Tymoshenko. European soccer fans protested a rapid-fire pair of goals from Andriy Shevchenko earned it strikers. The shouts of “Sheva” will continue to reverberate when visiting stadiums; they held placards and a memorable 2-1 comeback victory over Sweden on June throughout the country for a long time. adopted the opposition leader’s famous braid. 11. Ukraine’s national football icon rewarded the faith Oleg The battle between AC Milan’s current star scorer “Release all political prisoners” and “Fair play in Blokhin showed in him when the coach decided to name (Ibrahimovic) and its former standout (Shevchenko) was football and politics” were among the placards held at him a starter for the opening match. won by Shevchenko, who was presented the Man of the the Germany-Netherlands match in Kharkiv on June After Zlatan Ibrahimovic gave Sweden the lead in the Match award. Ibrahimovic was the focal point of the 14 by German Members of Parliament Rebecca 52nd minute, Shevchenko made his coach look brilliant by Swedish attack, shaving the goal post with a header in the Harms and Werner Schultz. responding with an equalizing header only three minutes “We don’t want to divert attention,” Mr. Schultz later. He then added the winner in the 61st minute. The win (Continued on page 10) said. “We want to support those people who helped the country bring the championship to Ukraine but are not sitting in prison at a time when others are basking in its beams.” Domestic politics was at the forefront in Lviv when City Council Chair (Mayor) Andrii Sadovyi com- plained on June 11 that the prior evening’s match that was broadcast from Poland in the city’s fan zone was in the Russian language. Kyiv Post reporter Jakub Parusinski raised concern about soccer teams bypassing a visit to Ukraine’s Holodomor memorial, after they had made well-pub- licized visits to the Auschwitz extermination camp in Poland. In particular, the German, English and Dutch teams are playing all their matches in Ukraine yet had not made plans to honor Holodomor victims, although they did pay their respects in Auschwitz, he noted. Meanwhile, in the weeks leading up to the Euro 2012, the British tabloids, as well as the BBC network, circulated reporters of Ukraine harboring racist, vio- lent soccer fans. Yet the only racist incidents to have been reported so far were in Poland, where fans alleg- edly insulted players who were practicing in Krakow.

(Continued on page 10) Football Federation of Ukraine “Sheva” celebrates Ukraine’s lead against Sweden 2-1. 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 No. 25

ANALYSIS

Ukraine hits back at British press Analyst: Language law unconstitutional Affairs Ministry in Kyiv, any rallies on the territory near the Olympiiskyi Sports KYIV – If a bill on the principles of the Complex were prohibited by court. The cap- state language policy is adopted by the par- after Euro 2012 ‘racism’ allegations ital’s police called on the organizers and liamentary majority and signed by the pres- The BBC “Panorama” footage showed a participants of the protest not to break the RFE/RL Ukrainian Service ident, the Constitutional Court will declare it group of Asian students being attacked at a law, plan their rallies in advance, and unconstitutional, political analyst Ukraine has accused the British media of stadium in Kharkiv, one of the four respect the interests and preferences of Volodymyr Fesenko said at a press confer- waging a campaign to discredit the country Ukrainian cities that is hosting group other Ukrainian citizens and foreign guests ence on June 13. “The law on the principles ahead of the European soccer champion- matches. who came to Kyiv to attend the Euro 2012. of language policy will not take effect, ship that it is co-hosting this month with The families of two black England play- although it will be passed and apparently (Interfax-Ukraine) Poland. ers have already said they would not go to signed by the president. It may face the In a BBC “Panorama” program broadcast the championship. Nine injured in tram explosion same scenario as the law on the Red Army on May 28, former England international On May 29, Mr. Voloshyn, Ukraine’s flag. That is, the Constitutional Court of KYIV – Ukrainian officials say an explo- player Sol Campbell warned England fans Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman, said, Ukraine will simply declare this law uncon- sion on June 11 inside a tram in not to travel to the Euro 2012 because of “You can criticize Ukrainian society for a lot stitutional,” he said. The analyst said that the Dnipropetrovsk injured at least nine people. the threat of racism and violence against of things ... but as far as racism is con- Party of Regions needs the law on the prin- The Internal Affairs Ministry said the explo- non-whites. cerned, European Union member-coun- ciples of the state language policy ahead of sion was caused by the “improper handling The documentary investigated the histo- tries are a long way ahead of Ukraine.” parliamentary elections in order to mobilize of gunpowder” by one of the tram passen- ry of violence by football fans in Poland and Pedophile alert Russian-speaking voters. (Ukrinform) gers. Officials said the 40-year-old owner of Ukraine, and included footage of fans giv- the gunpowder was among the nine people ing Nazi salutes and taunting black players Meanwhile, Ukraine’s ombudsman for Berkut officers encircle oppositionists injured. The man is reported to have with monkey noises. children’s rights has recommended that obtained the gunpowder for use in fishing Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Ministry parents keep their young ones away from KYIV – Berkut special police officers and hunting. No link to terrorism is suspect- spokesman Oleh Voloshyn said on May 29 the Euro 2012 due to potential predatory encircled around 20 people who were head- that the allegations of racism were an pedophiles. ing towards the Olympiiskyi National Sports ed, officials said. Back on April 27, 31 people “invented and mythical problem.” Yuriy Pavlenko, the Ukrainian presi- Complex to stage a protest on June 11. The in Dnipropetrovsk were injured when four Speaking to the BBC, Mr. Campbell indi- dent’s special representative on children’s protesters included National Deputy Yurii devices that had been placed in garbage bins cated that he was repulsed by what he saw rights, told journalists in Kyiv on May 28 Odarchenko of the Yulia Tymoshenko Bloc- exploded in what officials described as a ter- in the footage. “I can’t believe it, it just that sex tourists, including pedophiles, are Batkivschyna parliamentary faction. The rorist attack. Authorities had announced the makes me feel sick,” he said. “I just feel expected to be among the hundreds of national deputy showed the police a docu- arrest of four suspects in the April blasts, empty just watching it and also I feel hurt- thousands of tourists who will flock to ment that allegedly permitted the holding of saying the men had tried to obtain money ful because I know what those guys are Ukraine for the championship. Mr. the protest. A scuffle occurred between the from the government. (RFE/RL, based on going through.” Pavlenko suggested that parents send their opposition and an unidentified instigator as reporting by UNIAN and Interfax-Ukraine) children away from cities that will host the protesters made an attempt to walk to He advised England fans not to travel to Elton John, Queen to perform in Kyiv the tournament to avoid becoming victims matches during the tournament: the stadium. The protesters brought nation- of racist violence. “Stay at home, watch on “The president’s instructions emphasize al flags, flags of the united opposition and KYIV – Legendary singer Elton John and TV,” he said. “Don’t even risk it because you the safety of children during the Euro posters depicting former Prime Minister the British rock band Queen will hold a could end up... coming back, in a coffin.” Yulia Tymoshenko. Some of the protesters charitable AIDS-awareness concert on (Continued on page 9) wore embroidered shirts. The participants Independence Square before the Euro 2012 of the protest did not try to break through European Football Championship final, the the police encirclement. Fans wearing uni- head of the ANTIAIDS Foundation, Olena forms of the national teams of Ukraine, Pinchuk, said at a press conference in Kyiv ‘Chernobyl Diaries’ horror film Poland and Sweden, and T-shirts reading on June 7. The ANTIAIDS Foundation, with “Free Yulia” gathered near the opposition- the assistance of Union of European Football ists encircled by the police. Meanwhile, the Associations (UEFA), will organize the con- capital’s main police office explained that angers victim support group cert. The concert will be titled “Your Life is there was no scuffle between the opposi- what’s in store, the film’s screenwriters are Not a Game. Let’s Stop AIDS Together!” It by Luke Allnutt and Richard Solash tionists and Berkut special police officers. responsible for direct-to-DVD classics such will be at 8 p.m. to midnight on June 30 on RFE/RL The police office also said that physical force as “Transmorphers: Fall of Man,” “Titantic the stage in the fan zone on Independence was not used against the protesters. Horror fans are in for a treat with the II” (who knew?) and “Mega Python Vs. Square. According to Ms. Pinchuk, Elton release of “Chernobyl Diaries.” Gatoroid.” According to the public liaisons department Faithful to the genre, six young American While the film was shot in Serbia and of the main department of the Internal (Continued on page 12) tourists go on an extreme tour to the Hungary, by the looks of the trailer the film- Chornobyl fallout zone and the emptied-out makers have obviously based the visuals on city of Prypiat, with its sprawling concrete the moving photos from Prypiat, the city housing projects and abandoned schools that housed many of the workers at the he krainian eekly FOUNDED 1933 and hospitals. The perky adventure-seekers Chornobyl nuclear power plant, which T U W get stranded and trouble ensues at the show abandoned dolls, disused bumper An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., hands of radiation-mutated predators. cars, and a stationary Ferris wheel, its car- a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. Fans of exploitation cinema might be riages still eerily intact. Yearly subscription rate: $65; for UNA members — $55. happy, but support groups for victims of the It’s not the first film to be made about Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. world’s worst civilian nuclear disaster are Chornobyl. “Universal Soldier: (ISSN — 0273-9348) not. Regeneration” was set there, with Jean- Robert Schuettpelz, the director of Claude Van Damme preventing terrorists The Weekly: UNA: Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 Friends of Chernobyl Centers, U.S., a non- from blowing up the crippled reactor. profit that provides financial support to five More impressively, “Land Of Oblivion,” a Postmaster, send address changes to: community centers in Ukraine situated feature film by French-Israeli director The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz within or near contaminated areas, says the Michale Boganim, was shot entirely within 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas film is upsetting. the 30-kilometer exclusion zone. According P.O. Box 280 “I’ve been working with Chornobyl sur- to the director the film, which tells the story Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] vivors for the past eight years and after of a couple who marry on the day of the what I’ve seen and after I’ve got to know disaster, it angered the Ukrainian authori- The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com them, seeing this movie and the trailers, ties as it didn’t show the official response in and the information about it, it’s kind of a favorable light. The Ukrainian Weekly, June 17, 2012, No. 25, Vol. LXXX upsetting to see that they decided to make Looking at the #ChernobylDiaries Copyright © 2012 The Ukrainian Weekly this movie and make light of the real situa- hashtag on Twitter, at the moment excited tion in Ukraine, Belarus and Russia,” Mr. horror fans are vastly outnumbering the Schuettpelz says. “People are still living film’s detractors. with the after-effects of this every day – ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA even 26 years after.” Copyright 2012, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3041 A Facebook group, Boycotting Chernobyl with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ e-mail: [email protected] Diaries, has been set up, but currently has Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, Walter Honcharyk, advertising manager (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 fax: (973) 644-9510 only 108 likes. Washington DC 20036 (see http://www. e-mail: [email protected] The film, from the creator of rferl.org/content/chernobyl-diaries-horror- Mariyka Pendzola, subscriptions (973) 292-9800, ext. 3042 “Paranormal Activity,” is Bradley Parker’s film-angers-victim-support- e-mail: [email protected] directorial debut. To give you an idea of group/24590627.html). No. 25 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 3

NEWS ANALYSIS: U.S. ambassador in Russia under fire, again

by Pavel Felgenhauer The attack on Dr. McFaul boosted the sure of the Manas base was announced, but (RIA Novosti, May 30). Eurasia Daily Monitor Kremlin PR drive. According to Mikhail it continues to function under the name of a Dr. McFaul immediately tweeted back to Pashkin, the police trade union’s coordinat- “transportation hub” at least until the fall of Mr. Pushkov: “Lets meet and discuss ways U.S. Ambassador to Russia Michael ing council chairman, “many servicemen of 2014, while U.S. payouts to the Kyrgyzstani to advance our common interests in Syria, McFaul – former director for Russia and the Moscow specialized riot police [OMON] authorities increased dramatically. Mr. Iran, etc. …” (https://twitter.com/Mr. Eurasia on the U.S. National Security actually believe the street protests in Bakiyev was overthrown in a bloody revo- McFaul/status/207897484259893248). Council, considered the architect of Moscow are financed from abroad.” The lution in April 2010 and is now a political Mr. Pushkov did not immediately respond, President Barack Obama’s “reset policy” of key argument, according to Mr. Pashkin, is refugee in Belarus (RIA Novosti, May 25). wanting to first seek the Kremlin’s guid- improved U.S.-Russian relations – arrived the January opposition meeting with Dr. In his lecture, Dr. McFaul reportedly ance. While Dr. McFaul seems to be acquir- in Moscow last January and almost imme- McFaul. Mr. Pashkin talked with policemen accused Russian rulers of attempting to ing the status of an untouchable in Moscow, diately got into trouble. after the OMON brutally attacked protest- “link” sensitive international issues – like the newly appointed Russian foreign policy A number of opposition Duma deputies ers on May 6 (http://echo.msk.ru/blog/ offering more cooperation on the Iranian boss, presidential foreign policy aide Yuri met with Ambassador McFaul and Deputy pashkin/892098-echo/, May 24). nuclear issue or on containing North Ushakov told journalists: “The leaders of Secretary of State William Burns on Dr. McFaul’s apologies seemed to have Korean nuclear and ballistic missile ambi- the U.S. and Russia want a constructive January 17 at the U.S. Embassy. These dep- been at least partially accepted. Last week, tions – to U.S. recognition of Russia’s “privi- relationship, and ambassadors must not uties were swiftly denounced by state-con- the ambassador had a meeting with a leged spheres of influence” over former disrupt the process.” Mr. Ushakov acknowl- trolled TV, the ruling United Russia (UR) group of UR Duma deputies, led by the Soviet republics, including Georgia and edged, “Mr. McFaul, after each public prank, party and by the flamboyant leader of the head of the UR faction, Andrei Vorobyev. Kyrgyzstan, while stopping short of criticiz- is self-critical and apologetic,” but the dam- populist and nationalist Liberal Democratic Opposition deputies of the Just Russia fac- ing human rights abuses in Russia itself. age is already done (RIA Novosti, May 29). Party (LDPR), Vladimir Zhirinovsky, for tion called for the Duma Ethics Committee Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman The mission of reintegrating the post- committing “treason” – of “taking instruc- to consider censuring the UR for its meet- Aleksandr Lukashevich used highly undip- Soviet space into a Eurasian Union under tions from Western spies.” Dr. McFaul was ing with Dr. McFaul, but the motion was lomatic language, insisting “the Russian Russian command is the core issue of accused of being a “specialist in Orange rejected. Mr. Vorobyev declared that the UR Foreign Ministry was utterly bewildered by President Putin’s foreign and defense poli- revolutions,” who conspired with the oppo- wants a “maximum of dialogue and an Mr. McFaul’s unprofessional assertions” cy. The non-recognition of Russia’s “privi- sition to undermine Vladimir Putin’s exchange of views, because Russia is a free and insisted “the Russian leadership never leged interests” in the post-Soviet space regime by organizing street protests. The and democratic nation.” Dr. McFaul used the term ‘privileged spheres of influ- makes the United States Russia’s foremost Duma Ethics Committee censured the expressed readiness for such dialogue, add- ence,’ but spoke of countries with which we enemy, which, in Moscow’s eyes, is con- opposition deputies, who met with the U.S. ing that most U.S.-Russian problems arise are connected by mutual privileged inter- stantly conspiring to contain Russia in its envoy (Eurasia Daily Monitor January 26). “because of what [the U.S.] Congress does” ests.” According to Mr. Lukashevich, “This is present indefensible borders, inherited Since that ugly start of his diplomatic (Kommersant, May 26). not the first time that the pronouncements during the collapse of “the bigger Russia” – career, Dr. McFaul had worked hard to This partial rehabilitation of and actions of Mr. McFaul leave one flab- the USSR. improve his standing with Russian authori- Ambassador McFaul was extremely short- bergasted” (RIA Novosti, May 28). The fundamental crisis of U.S.-Russian ties, stressing President Obama’s strong lived. On May 25, he lectured students at Unnamed Foreign Ministry sources have relations became public in the mid-2000s commitment to “reset” while in meetings one of Moscow’s most prestigious universi- been quoted by the state news agency RIA and went critical during the invasion of with officials and in interviews on state- ties – the Higher School of Economics – and Novosti: “The Americans ought not to Georgia in August 2008. After the 2008 controlled media. Dr. McFaul complained his address caused a major diplomatic cri- expect the government of a sovereign state war, the West swiftly reconciled itself to the that his command of Russian was some- sis. Dr. McFaul apparently stated that in to ‘adapt’ to the unrestrained speech of the new status quo. The Western powers com- what slipping “after 17 years living outside 2008 and 2009 Moscow “bribed” former head of a diplomatic mission who boasts of partmentalized the continued Russian of Russia” and apologized for calling Russia Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev to his unprofessionalism.” The chairman of occupation of Abkhazia and South Ossetia a “wild country.” He told journalists: “It was induce him to close the strategically impor- the Duma Foreign Relations committee, in the far off South Caucasus, while formal- a mistake; I’m not a professional diplomat.” tant U.S. air base at the Manas airport in Alexei Pushkov, joined the Foreign Ministry ly recognizing Georgian territorial integrity The ambassador stressed that meeting Bishkek, used to transfer military person- in suggesting it was time for Washington to and NATO aspirations. Mr. Obama’s (and opposition leaders and parliamentarians is nel and supplies into Afghanistan. recall Dr. McFaul, telling journalists: “The Mr. McFaul’s) “reset” policy was intended normal diplomatic practice (RIA Novosti, Washington, in turn, offered Mr. Bakiyev a U.S. must decide: does it need an ambassa- April 3). bribe, but “it was 10 times smaller.” The clo- dor that has lost influence in Moscow?” (Continued on page 12)

Ukraine’s literary and cultural elite revive Shevchenko tradition

by Tamara Olexy Ukraine; Vasyl Shkliar, writer, author of the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America best seller “Black Raven”; Ivan Malkovych, writer and director of the “ABABAHALA- KYIV – On a warm May 22 evening, hun- MAHA” publishing house; Mykola dreds gathered in the center of Kyiv before Kniazhytsky, general director of the TV the imposing monument to Ukraine’s Channel TVi; Yurii Stets, member of famous bard, Taras Shevchenko, to revive a Parliament and general producer of long-held tradition. On this day in 1861, Channel 5; Oleg Fahot Mykhailiuta, musi- Taras Shevchenko, who died and was bur- cian, Tango na Maidani Kongo; Solomiya ied in St. Petersburg, Russia, was reburied Vitvitska, TV presenter on Channel 1+1; in Kaniv, Ukraine, fulfilling the poet’s testa- Roman Chaika, musician and journalist for ment. Channel 5; Oleksander Irvanets, poet and On that day, Mykhailo Drahamanov playwright; Sashko Lirnyk (Oleksander urged Ukrainians to be faithful to the ideals Vlasiuk), storyteller, musician and cartoon- of the poet and stated, “Everyone who ist; Oleksandr Bryhynec, poet and Kyiv City comes to serve the people, thereby puts on Council deputy; Angelica Rudnytska, singer a crown of thorns.” This statement proved and honored artist of Ukraine; Svitlana to be prophetic, as the 1861 historic event Povalyaeva, poetess and writer; and Artem became a rallying point for years to come Polezhanets, poet, singer and showman. whereby Ukrainian patriots gathered on The recitations took on various forms, this date to commemorate Ukraine’s great- UCCA including a melodic a cappella perfor- est bard. An overall view of the event honoring Taras Shevchenko. mance by Marika Burmaka. Taking the This tradition continued throughout the stage, Ms. Burmaka stated that she remem- 1960s and 1970s, when Ukraine’s patriotic Shevchenko poems to honor not only to recite the poems that inspired them to bers standing before the monument back youth defied the Soviet government by Shevchenko but also all those who fought mark this anniversary. Remembering the in 1988, when she was only a teenager, reciting Shevchenko’s poetry and deliver- for an independent Ukraine. days when they were students, today’s during the convention of the Ukrainian ing speeches about the Ukrainian nation. He concluded his opening remarks by Ukraine’s literary elite, politicians, musi- Language Society, and having the opportu- As a result, many of these brave patriots stating that “Unfortunately, today to speak cians, journalists and community leaders nity to recite poems and sing. “Many years were arrest and imprisoned. and to read in Ukrainian is still a position.” took to the stage one by one. Participating have passed since then, and yet it seems On the anniversary this year, National Ironically, that very week Ukrainophobes in in this 2012 event were: Yevhen Sverstiuk, like we are still on the barricades.” She con- Deputy Oles Doniy, chair of the The Last the Verkhovna Rada registered a draft law public figure and former political prisoner; cluded her remarks by asking everyone to Barricade Art Association, stood before the that would introduce the Russian language Vasyl Ovienko, former political prisoner, remain united. She then took the opportu- Shevchenko monument and stated, “It is as the second official language in many journalist and historian of the dissident nity to sing her chosen Shevchenko poem. now time to revive a long and good tradi- regions of Ukraine. “Unfortunately, the movement; Yosyp Zissels, community activ- The event was organized by The Last tion.” He invited dozens of famous writers, attacks on the Ukrainian language and cul- ist and dissident; Maria Burmaka, singer Barricade Art Association, the It’s True politicians, musicians, journalists and com- ture have not ceased,” concluded Mr. Doniy. and TV presenter; Taras Fediuk, poet, lau- foundation and the My Ukraine, Ukrainian munity leaders to recite their favorite Mr. Doniy then proceeded to invite guests reate of the Taras Shevchenko State Prize of Association of Festivals. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 No. 25 No. 25 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 5

Ukrainian World Congress president visits France, Poland and Denmark TORONTO – Throughout May, Ukrainian community members came for the event. World Congress (UWC) President Eugene On May 7-9, during his visit to Poland, Czolij traveled to Europe, holding meetings President Czolij met with Polish President with Ukrainian community leaders in Bronislaw Komorowski, Senate Speaker France, Poland, and Denmark. He also met Bogdan Borusewicz, the Sejm’s Foreign with high-level official political leaders in Affairs Committee Chair Grzegorz Schetyna those countries. and Ministry of Foreign Affairs President Czolij started on May 6 in the Undersecretary of State Katarzyna city of Senlis, France, celebrating the day honoring France’s Queen Anna Yaroslavna Mr. Czolij discussed the significance of of Kyiv. Greetings to the public were made Ukraine’sPełczyńska-Nałęcz. Euro-integration as well as by several notables, including Vice respecting human rights and fundamental President of the Twinning Committee Anna European values in order to follow a pro- Canter, Ukraine’s Ambassador in France European course. As for the upcoming par- Oleksander Kupchyshyn and the president liamentary elections in Ukraine, he encour- of the Representative Committee for aged Polish officials to demand that impris- Ukrainians in France Natalia Pasternak. oned opposition leaders Yulia Tymoshenko Mr. Czolij discussed the history between and Yurii Lutsenko be released and allowed France and Ukraine, and the importance of to participate in the elections. Mr. Czolij also French leaders’ efforts to urge Ukrainian stated that short- and long-term observers authorities to develop respect for human must be organized for these elections. In rights and freedoms. With this, he empha- addition, he discussed calls for the boycott UWC sized the importance of Ukraine’s Euro- of the Euro 2012, which he said would hurt At the monument to Queen Anna (Yaroslavna) of France (from left) are: Anna Canter of integration and how a UWC observer mis- the Ukrainian people population and the the Twinning Committee in Senlis, France, Ukrainians World Congress President Eugene sion is essential during the Parliamentary country’s European integration. Czolij and Natalia Pasternak of the Representative Committee for Ukrainian in France. elections in Ukraine this fall. Another meeting was held with The UWC leader attended a divine litur- Ukraine’s Ambassador to Poland, Markian Dim (National Home) in Przemysl. ics of human rights and the upcoming par- gy at St. Vincent Abbey and laid wreaths at Malsky and together with two members of While in Poland, Mr. Czolij also met with liamentary elections. Anna of Kyiv’s monument as well as next to the executive of the Canadian organization representatives of high-level international On May 9-10 and 12-13, Mr. Czolij trav- a memorial plaque dedicated to Holodomor Narodnyi Dim, Mr. Czolij remitted $5,000 to institutions. He first met with Pawel Kowal, eled to Copenhagen where he met with the victims. Many Ukrainians as well as local AUP President Petro Tyma for the Narodnyi chair of the European Parliament’s head of Denmark’s Ministry of Foreign Delegation to the EU-Ukraine Parliamentary Affairs Department for the European neigh- Cooperation Committee. Their discussion borhood and Russia, Christian Christensen, included issues related to Ukraine’s Euro- and Former Member of Parliament who is a integration and calls the Euro 2012. representative of the Danish Helsinki Mr. Czolij also met with Janez Lenarcic, Committee for Human Rights Hanne the director of the Office for Democratic Severinsen. Institutions and Human Rights of the In a community address he emphasized Organization for Security and Cooperation the interests of the Ukrainian people. The in Europe (OSCE). They discussed the UWC president mentioned that Ukrainian Tymoshenko case and the importance of liturgies are celebrated in St. Ansgar’s having observers for the upcoming parlia- Cathedral with aid from Roman Catholic mentary elections. Bishop Czeslaw Kozon and how a school of On May 11, during his visit to Strasbourg, Ukrainian studies should be established. France, Mr. Czolij met with Council of The Ukrainian World Congress is an Europe Secretary General Thorbjorn international organization uniting Jagland. He encouraged the Council of Ukrainian communities in the diaspora. It Europe “to widely disseminate information was founded in 1967 as a non-profit corpo- among Ukrainian citizens about the benefits ration and has member-organizations in 32 of a pro-European course” and emphasized countries and connections with Ukrainians that the main condition to the Association in 14 additional countries. In 2003, the Agreement between Ukraine and the EU is United Nations Economic and Social Council for the Ukrainian government to “adhere to recognized the UWC as a non-governmental fundamental European values and respect organization (NGO) with special consulta- Council of Europe Secretary General Thorbjorn Jagland (right) with Ukrainian World Congress President Eugene Czolij. human rights.” Mr. Czolij discussed the top- tive status. University of Fribourg draws together experts on Ukrainian-Polish relations FRIBOURG, Switzerland – A fortnight sador to Switzerland, and Guido Vergauwen, Students and guests from Switzerland symposium, which focused on a very rich before the start of the UEFA Euro 2012 soc- rector of the University of Fribourg. and across Europe attended the sympo- history of two nations with a turbulent cer championship leading scholars, inter- A lively discussion followed featuring sium. Andy Hunder, director of the past, who are now together hosting national journalists and political analysts key experts Katya Gorchinskaya (deputy Ukrainian Institute in London, attended the Europe’s biggest festival of football.” convened in Switzerland to discuss the editor, Kyiv Post), Aleksandra Hnatiuk event and commented: “This was a very The key driver behind the symposium social, economic, political and cultural per- (Head, Common Program of the National well thought through and skillfully orga- was Mr. Lushnycky, of the Ukrainian Society spectives of the relationship of the two University Kyiv Mohyla Academy and the nized event uniting some of the leading of Switzerland. There are currently around neighboring states over the past two centu- University of Warsaw), Andrzej Szeptycki experts on Ukrainian-Polish relations. The 5,000 Ukrainians living throughout the ries. (Institute of International Relations, University of Fribourg put together a great Swiss confederation. The University of Fribourg, in coopera- Warsaw) and Leszek Jesien (Collegium tion with the Embassies of Poland and Civitas University, Warsaw). The panel dis- Ukraine, and the Ukrainian Society of cussion was moderated by Christophe von Switzerland, hosted an international schol- Werdt from the University of Berne. Information cards for foreigners arly symposium “From Battlegrounds to The symposium on May 25, included Football Fields: Poland and Ukraine in the presentations from internationally aim to help stop human trafficking 20th and 21st centuries” on May 24-25, in renowned scholars Siegfried Weichlein KYIV – Arrival information cards pro- tors to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay the capital of the Swiss canton of Fribourg. (University of Fribourg), Jan Jacek Bruski duced by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in the country. The card draws particular The event kicked off on Thursday, May (Jagiellonian University, Kracow), in Ukraine (PCU) in co-operation with attention to trafficking in human beings 24, with a panel discussion titled “Euro Oleksandra Kunovska (University of the country’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and covers legal and penal aspects of 2012: Cohesion and Controversies,” which Fribourg), Yaroslav Hrytsak (Ukrainian and State Border Guard Service are this crime. looked at how the football championship, a Catholic University, Lviv), Mykola Riabchuk being distributed during the European The card is part of the PCU’s anti-traf- once-in-a-generation event, is perceived in (Ukrainian Center for Cultural Studies, football championship co-hosted by ficking awareness-raising efforts prior to Poland and Ukraine. Kyiv) and Olya Onuch (University of Ukraine and Poland in June 2012. the forthcoming European football The two‐day conference was opened by Oxford). The discussion moderators were The “Welcome to Ukraine!” card, championship. Andrej N. Lushnycky, president of the Edward Swiderski, professor of philosophy, available on the link below, contains The card is available at http://www. Ukrainian Society of Switzerland, followed and Jens Herlth, professor of slavistics, basic recommendations for foreign visi- osce.org/ukraine/90545 by speeches from Ihor Dir, Ukraine’s ambas- both at the University of Fribourg. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 No. 25

The Ukrainian Weekly FOR THE RECORD: European Parliament resolution on Ukraine Soccer’s beautiful images Following is an excerpt of the resolution this delay regrettable and warns against Several images stand out for us from this week’s Euro 2012 soccer champion- on the ”situation in Ukraine, case of Yulia protraction of due legal process; ships in Ukraine. First there is soccer star Andrii Shevchenko heading not one Tymoshenko” adopted on May 24 by the 8. Urges the Ukrainian authorities to but two goals; then there is a 6-year-old boy from Kyiv named Timur exulting in European Parliament. ensure full respect for the right of all prison- Shevchenko’s winning goal. Sheva was named Man of the Match as his goals won ers sentenced on politically motivated Ukraine its first game of the Euro 2012 – its debut in the European soccer cham- The European Parliament, grounds, including Ms. Tymoshenko, Mr. pionships – by a score of 2-1 against Sweden in Kyiv’s Olimpiiskyi (Olympic) 1. Stresses that one of its main foreign [Yurii] Lutsenko and Mr. [Valeriy] Stadium. The scene of the stadium also was unforgettable: it was overflowing policy objectives is to enhance and foster Ivashchenko, to adequate medical assis- with the blue and yellow national colors of the two teams. relations with Ukraine and strengthen the tance in an appropriate institution, for their (As of Thursday morning, June 14, nearly 380,000 people saw one particular European Neighborhood Policy, whose aim right of unrestricted access to their lawyers video clip of Timur on YouTube – and there were other similar clips seen by tens is to encourage political, economic and cul- and for the right to be visited by relatives of thousands more. On the Facebook page Inspired, the clip had over 6,500 tural relations between the countries con- and other people such as the EU ambassa- “likes” and more than 5,600 “shares”; over 400 people posted comments in sev- cerned and the EU and its member-states; dor; stresses the need for Ukraine to respect eral languages – Ukrainian, Russian, English, Polish, French and Spanish among underlines the fact that the signing and rati- fully the legal and human rights of defen- them. One Russian post read: “On the face of this child is the happiness and joy fication the Association Agreement and its dants and detainees, including the right to medical care, in line with international stan- of the entire country.”) effective implementation will require an dards; condemns the use of force by prison Another image seen this week epitomized hope for modern-day Ukraine: improvement in the human rights situation, guards against Yulia Tymoshenko, and Ukrainians of all backgrounds and races were singing the words to the national including decriminalization of political deci- sions under a reformed penal code, in the recalls the obligation of Ukraine to examine anthem at the Ukraine-Sweden game. That scene was a visual riposte to the ugly promptly and impartially any complaints of rumors of rampant racism in Ukraine spread via a British television broadcast rule of law and in deep democracy, with an end to the stifling of the political opposition torture or other forms of cruel, inhuman or and picked up by many news media around the world. The Euro 2012 in degrading treatment; Ukraine has thus far been a success in terms of Ukraine’s people and the world’s and with free, fair and transparent elections; 2. Stresses that the current problems in 9. Calls for the Ukrainian authorities to soccer fans, and the reports from the fan zones established in host cities of Kyiv, establish an independent and impartial Donetsk, Kharkiv and Lviv were highly positive. (To be sure, there was a small relations between Ukraine and the European Union can only be solved on the international legal panel to report on possi- incident in Lviv between Ukrainian and Russian fans, but police quickly inter- ble violations of fundamental rights and vened to cool down the passions.) basis of a clear willingness on the part of the Ukrainian authorities to carry out and freedoms in the cases of Yulia Tymoshenko Writing on his Ukraine team blog on the UEFA [Union of European Football and other members of her government; implement the necessary reforms, in partic- Associations] website, Boris Popov reported from the Ukrainian capital: “…for- notes with satisfaction the outcomes of the ular of the legal and judicial system, with eign fans I have spoken to have been full of praise for Kyiv, despite the mixed meeting of the president of the European the aim of full adherence to the principles of nature of the recent weather. Above all, they’ve made the point that Ukraine Parliament, Mr. Martin Schulz, with the democracy and respect for human rights seems much more like the rest of Europe than they had originally thought.” prime minister of Ukraine, Mr. Mykola and fundamental freedoms, minority rights The Associated Press reported on June 12: “UEFA has received no reports of Azarov, and expects the Ukrainian authori- and the rule of law; calls for active and effec- racial abuse during the four group matches played so far at Ukrainian venues of ties to respond to the agreed proposal by tive support in this reform process to be the European championship.” Markiyan Lubkivskyi, UEFA’s tournament director providing guidelines for its prompt imple- given by the institutions of the European in Kyiv, told reporters, “There are no incidents to report. Nobody made any com- mentation so as to ensure, in cooperation Union and by the Council of Europe and its ments to us regarding racism – no players, no teams, no fans.” And the president with, and in support of, the Charité medical Venice Commission; of the Football Federation of Ukraine, Grygoriy Surkis, was quoted as saying, team, proper medical treatment for Ms. 3. Reaffirms its concerns about the judi- Yulia Tymoshenko, as well as judicial scruti- “You find crazy people in every country, but you can’t condemn a whole country cial proceedings against former and current for that. And many times it is not racism, just a provocation.” ny by an authoritative and competent EU high government officials, which were not personality of the appeal and cassation pro- But back to little Timur. The little fellow with the classic bowl-cut hairstyle, conducted in accordance with European who wore a Ukraine T-shirt depicting Euro-2012 mascots Slavko and Slavek and cesses and future trials of the former prime standards of fairness, impartiality, transpar- minister of Ukraine; had a tiny Ukrainian flag painted on his cheek, has become a star – a good luck ency and independence; calls for the uncon- charm for Ukraine’s team, many said. His reaction to Ukraine’s winning goal and 10. Welcomes the fact that Ms. ditional immediate release of all prisoners Tymoshenko was transferred from the the expression on his face have come to personify Ukraine’s joy. sentenced on politically motivated grounds, Kachanivska prison to hospital by her own We were all Timur on June 11. And, no matter how team Ukraine does in its including leaders of the opposition; decision, and takes note of the recent visit next games, Ukraine and Ukrainians worldwide had much reason to rejoice with 4. Deplores the sentencing of former by international medical experts; the start of the Euro 2012. How great to see Ukraine’s mood so uplifted and Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko; stresses 11. Insists that all judicial proceedings united! that strengthening the rule of law and an against former and current high-ranking independent judiciary, as well as initiating a government officials must be conducted in credible fight against corruption, are essen- accordance with European standards of tial not only to the deepening of EU-Ukraine fairness, impartiality, transparency and relations but also to the consolidation of independence; condemns the fact that the June Turning the pages back... democracy in Ukraine; Ukrainian authorities are bringing new 5. Calls on the Ukrainian authorities to politically motivated cases against Ms. distinguish between political and criminal Tymoshenko and others, contrary to the 23 Last year, on June 23, 2011, Rep. Christopher Smith (R-N.J.), responsibility and to change the existing principles of the rule of law; 2011 chairman of the U.S. Commission on Security and Cooperation in criminal penal code accordingly; stresses 12. Expresses dismay at the state of dem- Europe (Helsinki Commission) and a senior member of the that the democratic struggle for political ocratic freedoms, as well as at the practice House Foreign Affairs Committee, entered a statement on decisions must take place in Parliament, of instrumentalizing state institutions for “Ukraine’s Democratic Reversals” into the Congressional Record. During that week, with participation by voters in free elec- partisan purposes and political revenge; Ukraine marked the 70th anniversary of the Nazi invasion of Ukraine. tions, and must not be destroyed by person- 13. Underlines the critical importance of free, fair and transparent parliamentary Referencing events that had occurred in Ukraine during the previous 16 months, Rep. ally or politically motivated acts of criminal elections in Ukraine later this year, includ- Smith identified examples such as the politically motivated selective prosecution of high- prosecution and manipulated judgments in ing the right of the opposition leadership to ranking government officials. The congressman called on Washington to focus its atten- the criminal courts; take part, and the need to maintain a deep tion on what was happening in Ukraine, given the vital role that Ukraine plays in the 6. Calls on the Ukrainian authorities to commitment to democratic values and the region. clarify the situation of prisoners sentenced rule of law, including in the period between Rep. Smith also highlighted the recent “golden age” for Ukraine during the post-Orange on politically motivated grounds before the elections; calls for the European Parliament Revolution euphoria, when Ukraine earned the designation of “free” from Freedom House start of the election campaign; 7. Calls on the Ukrainian authorities to to participate in its own right in an interna- – the only country among the 12 non-Baltic former Soviet republics to do so. tional election observation mission to However, Rep. Smith also cautioned against the democratic backsliding that was occur- guarantee the impartiality and transparen- cy of the cassation process in Ms. observe the next parliamentary elections; ring under President Viktor Yanukovych, “which threatens to return Ukraine to authori- 14. Reminds the Ukrainian authorities of tarianism and jeopardizes its independence from Russia,” he said. Other worrisome Tymoshenko’s case, which should take place in line with the fair and just legal stan- the need for comprehensive reforms, which trends, noted by Rep. Smith, included the consolidation of power in the presidency, which must be implemented in order to pave the has weakened checks and balances; restrictions on freedom of expression and freedom of dards and practices common in Europe, and demands an end to the use of selective jus- way for Ukraine to converge with European assembly; various forms of pressure on media and civil society groups; attempts to curtail norms and standards; stresses that tice targeting political and other opponents; academic freedom and that of institutions and activists who peacefully promote the Ukraine’s rapprochement with the EU deplores the fact that the High Specialized Ukrainian national identity; and seriously flawed local elections. should be built upon its commitment to EU Court of Ukraine on Criminal and Civil Cases The most persistent threat to Ukrainian democracy and sovereignty, Rep Smith said, values and freedoms; stresses that one cor- has postponed its ruling on the cassation was the endemic corruption that permeates all levels of government in Ukraine, and cou- nerstone of these standards must be an appeal in Ms. Tymoshenko’s case against pled with the weak rule of law and lack of an independent judiciary, which were not kept independent judiciary; the decision of Pechersk District Court in in check during the Orange era, had combined to become more pronounced under the 15. Stresses that full respect for human current regime. Kyiv; notes the adjournment of the cassa- rights legislation and establishing basic tion hearing on the case of Yulia Source: “For the record: Ukraine’s democratic reversals,” The Ukrainian Weekly, July 3, 2011. Tymoshenko to June 26, 2012, considers (Continued on page 9) No. 25 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 7

From a Canadian Angle by Oksana Bashuk Hepburn

Needed: A fighting spirit Democracy in the age of “whatever” As the political situation in Ukraine ful protests are a fundamental right – is not What is the difference between patrio- (Slavoj Zizek, “Liberalism as Politics for a deteriorates discussions within the evident in Quebec as students enter their tism and nationalism? Most people think of Race of Devils” http://www.abc.net.au/reli- Ukrainian diaspora on what to do now heat fourth month of demonstrating against patriotism as positive, but many see nation- gion/articles/2011/11/22/3373316.htm) up. Some consider maintaining good rela- university fee hikes.) Ukraine’s diplomats alism as negative. In a recent article focusing If such a scenario is unlikely in Ukraine, tions with Ukraine’s government a priority, must be pleased. on the United States, historian John Lukacs it is only because the moral and intellectual others call it collaborating with a criminal The diaspora must not be sucked into distinguished the two, while showing that in capital of the pre-Communist order was regime; they support boycotts of official aiding and abetting Ukraine’s bad govern- America they overlap and are often con- practically destroyed. Since liberalism, as Embassy and Consulate events until things ment. Diaspora Ukrainians, even the apa- fused. Characterizing patriotism as defen- Mr. Zizek observes, is parasitic of preceding improve. The majority is passive. thetic ones, are recipients of daily doses of sive, traditionalist and historically conscious, cultures, it cannot grow on a morally sterile This three-way division parallels the trampling of democratic values in he described nationalism as aggressive, site like Ukraine. Thus, after 1991, Ukraine’s on-the-ground reality, where Ukraine. Neither Canadians nor American democratic and present-minded. The young- Ukrainians could only fall back on the rem- political opposition and democracy-mind- Ukrainians would put up with arrests, er of the two tendencies, nationalism arose nants of previous systems. True, western ed groups and individuals are confronting beatings, humiliation of women in the in the 19th century and today, according to Ukraine could still draw on the Austrian the Party of Regions’ misguided determi- workforce, bribes, a high mortality rate, Mr. Lukacs, characterizes both the and Polish parliamentary traditions. But nation to revert to Communist-style dicta- etc. Nor would their opposition leaders Republican and the Democratic parties. that was a minority voice. In the more torship. While democrats protest, the languish in prison. The cries of condemna- (John Lukacs, “American Nationalism,” recently settled industrial areas of the silent majority watches Ukraine’s politi- tion and calls for resignation would thun- Harper’s Magazine, May 2012, pp. 56-58) south and east, the uprooted population cians-cum-oligarchs amass incredible for- der from coast to coast, and the politicians As recent debates illustrate, there is no had no social memory of Ukrainian culture tunes unconcerned with those who protest responsible for the mess would feel the consensus on whether the Ukrainian move- or a democratic state – only the chaos of this – the over 100 opposition leaders lan- outrage on election day. ment was patriotic or nationalist. It had ele- capitalist industrialization and social dislo- guishing in prison. Recent polls show that Democratic values are the prism ments of both of Mr. Lukacs’s definitions: cation, followed by the iron-fisted rule of were elections to be held now some 60 through which the diaspora needs to originally it was defensive, traditionalist, the Bolsheviks. In this perspective, the percent of the population would not vote. assess today’s politics in Ukraine and rise and rooted in history, but also democratic. Party of Regions is not a race of political Although apathy does not mean support to the call for help. There is much to do. Some would say that by the 1930s, at least mutants spawned in the teratogenic chemi- for the regime, it delivers the same results: Most important is this: The majority of in the form of the Organization of Ukrainian cal slime of the Donbas, but the unsurpris- a Party of Regions victory. Ukrainians – betrayed by the Orange Nationalists, it was very present-minded ing result of a cruel socio-political experi- The diaspora community, too, is Revolution, mistrustful of politicians in and aggressive, but more authoritarian ment performed on a historically loboto- besieged by apathy. This is not helpful to power and in the opposition, and fright- than democratic – though during and after mized and spiritually deadened population. Ukraine’s democrats, nor is the ongoing ened into submission – are on the verge of World War II it evolved towards democracy. Consequently, that part of the country argument for the diaspora to continue rela- committing political suicide. Political apa- But perhaps Mr. Lukacs’s definitions are has only been able to revert to the quasi- tions with Ukraine’s Embassies. In Western thy is tantamount to giving up their last not adequate to describe Ukrainian histori- feudal Russian pattern of lord and vassal. states the role of collaborators, or enablers trump card: the right to overthrow the cal reality. Indeed, the behavior of the new elite and of the regime, is to support initiatives that party in power and elect a new hope. I would rather define patriotism as a their dissolute offspring resembles the are meaningful to the regime, like the pro- It’s paramount for Ukrainians to vote en subjective attitude drawing on cultural and arrogant antics of the old Russian landhold- posed free trade agreement between masse in the October elections. They must historical inspiration. Nationalism, I would ing class. Or if we are to believe a recent Canada and Ukraine, and withhold criti- not be fooled by voices like that of former say, is patriotism with a program. Thus, article in Foreign Affairs by Venezuelan cism. Above all, enablers are asked to President Viktor Yushchenko, whose politi- while patriotism was strong in 20th centu- economist Moisés Naím, Ukraine is one of ensure there are no protests calling for cal irresponsibility was in full view during ry western Ukraine, organizations like the several states that have been taken over by freedom for imprisoned opposition politi- the 2010 parliamentary elections. Stepping National Democrats (a political party) and “mafias.” It is not merely a matter of crimi- cians in front of Embassies and Consulates out of his voting booth he declared that he the OUN (a conspiratorial group) were nal syndicates influencing government or to prevent embarrassing the regime. had voted for no one. The rest is history. He “nationalist” because they had a specific buying politicians, but of international Embassies take orders from the minister is a fat cat in Ukraine (Or is it Chicago?), mode of action – parliamentary participa- criminal organizations controlling entire of foreign affairs, Konstantyn Gryshchenko. President Yanukovych abuses power, and tion and violence, respectively – and a con- countries. (Moisés Naím, “Mafia States,” His answer to the free world’s call to Yulia Tymoshenko is in prison. crete political vision: a more or less demo- Foreign Affairs, Vol. 81, No. 3, May-June release former Prime Minister Yulia The diaspora needs to do its job by cratic national state. 2012; thanks to Taras Kuzio for bringing Tymoshenko was: don’t mix soccer and mounting protests around the world and Today, the Ukrainian diaspora, and like- this article to the attention of several col- politics. It was a script from the Soviet echoing Western governments’ criticisms minded politicians in the homeland, hold a leagues). But if we regard the original Mafia days, when critics were admonished not to of Ukraine’s president rather than falling “nationalist” vision that combines patrio- as a kind of residual feudalism grafted onto mix culture with politics. for cheap tricks like the dulling of its dem- tism with the liberal democratic program. a modern industrialized society, we see that Clearly, a diplomat’s job is to defend the ocratic values by the horilka and kovbasa That is, they support an independent the term fits Ukraine. regime for better or worse, but what is the at Embassy receptions, photo ops with Ukrainian state organized as a parliamenta- Where does that leave patriotism and diaspora’s job? ambassadors, cronyism with oligarchs and ry democracy with a free market, the rule democracy? The two are not inextricably As Western governments criticize, warn other gestures of state recognition. of law and basic human rights. That this is a linked. Given a grave foreign threat, a ruling and snub President Viktor Yanukovych, Make no mistake: the Ukrainian govern- worthy goal seems self-evident. But, Ukrainian mafia could generate consider- and distance themselves from the outra- ment’s mission abroad aims to neutralize recently, political philosopher Slavoj Zizek able support by playing the patriotic card. geous treatment of opposition politicians, the diaspora’s criticism as global pressure of the University of London’s Birkbeck Mr. Lukacs speaks optimistically of the the diaspora’s engagement with the mounts to release opposition politicians Institute has questioned the sustainability “mass democratization of the world.” Yet, regime or lack of open protest undermines and the elections draw near. The attempt of the liberal ideal. He points out the con- aside from New England town halls and their position. World governments are to split the Ukrainian Orthodox Church tradictions between political liberalism and similar institutions, there are no direct escalating into “naming and shaming” abroad, and with that distract the diaspora market liberalism. The latter dissolves democracies today. What we have is repre- Ukraine’s law-breakers, restricting entry from Ukraine’s politics is but one example. social cohesiveness through the money sentative democracies or republics – where and freezing their assets abroad. Another is denying Ukrainian citizens economy, creating inequitable socio-eco- moneyed elites often control the process. Therefore, it is surprising that, other than abroad the right to vote. nomic conditions that undermine the ideals Even oligarchies and dictatorships, claiming periodic criticisms from umbrella groups, The diaspora’s mission is to be demo- of the former. Although economic liberal- to represent the will of the people, call there has been little encouragement to crats first and foremost, criticize bad acts ism is favored by the right, political and themselves democratic. Democracies are engage in grassroots protests against the of Ukraine’s government and applaud the economic liberalism are really two sides of not all created equal. It is a matter of degree. regime. In fact, the Ukrainian Canadian good. And, urge Ukrainians to use their the same contradictory coin. But the question remains, why democra- Congress has decided to neither hold nor power on election day. Mr. Zizek also critiques post-modern lib- cy? If, as Mr. Zizek argues, postmodern lib- support peaceful protests before Ukrainian erals’ “realistic” belief that politics should eralism has left us with a morally flat politi- Embassies or Consulates. Apparently it is be purged of moral ideals, and that the cal landscape, by what criteria can we concerned about mixed messages and law- Oksana Bashuk Hepburn may be con- greatest evil is any attempt to impose a decide whether one political system is bet- suits. (Strange that such thinking – peace- tacted at [email protected]. vision of “the Good” upon society. For in ter than another? In today’s political lexi- seeking to prevent every individual from con, “democratic” is practically synony- We welcome your opinion harming every other, liberals end up creat- mous with “good.” But what – even in strict- ing an oppressive set of rules against “dis- ly political terms – is “good”? In the post- The Ukrainian Weekly welcomes letters to the editor and commentaries on a variety crimination.” The paradoxical result of “the modern age of “whatever,” neither patrio- of topics of concern to the Ukrainian American and Ukrainian Canadian communities. tism, nor nationalism, nor liberalism can Letters should be typed and signed (anonymous letters are not published). Letters are accept- separation of legal justice from moral good- ed also via e-mail at [email protected]. The daytime phone number and address of the let- ness,” he argues, is “a claustrophobic, provide a satisfactory answer. ter-writer must be given for verification purposes. Please note that a daytime phone number oppressive moralism brimming with resent- is essential in order for editors to contact letter-writers regarding clarifications or questions. ment.” The “tyranny of the Good” is thus Andrew Sorokowski may be reached at Please note: THE LENGTH OF LETTERS CANNOT EXCEED 500 WORDS. replaced by a new market-liberal utopia. [email protected]. 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 No. 25 No. 25 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 9 British expert speaks on challenges and prospects of Ukrainian-Russian relations EDMONTON, Alberta – The 46th toward Ukraine since the collapse of the Europeanism. A democratic and European Shevchenko lecture was held at the Soviet Union. Recovering from what in Mr. Ukraine would thus serve as a model to University of Alberta in Edmonton on Putin’s words was the “greatest geopolitical democratize Russia, which will otherwise March 9. The co-organizers of this presti- catastrophe of the 20th century,” today’s remain a source of authoritarianism in the gious event, the Canadian Institute of Russian leadership seeks to restore region. Ukrainian Studies and the Ukrainian Moscow’s former “sphere of influence” and In the end, Mr. Sherr reached the some- Professional and Business Club of recapture the proud past of the Russian what paradoxical conclusion that the great- Edmonton, hosted a distinguished guest imperial state. The recent war with est threat to Ukraine is Ukraine itself. speaker from the United Kingdom, James Georgia, the territorial provocations at Despite ongoing attempts by the West to Sherr, whose subject was “Ukraine and the Tuzla, the use of energy as a political tool, encourage political and economic reforms Russian Question.” and attempts to thwart Ukraine’s European facilitating integration into the European A senior fellow of the Russia and Eurasia aspirations are all indications of Russia’s Union, Ukraine has largely squandered Program at Chatham House (London), he real intentions with regard to Ukraine. these opportunities, which were most came to Edmonton from Ottawa, where he Russia certainly feels threatened plentiful in the 1990s and after the Orange took part in an international conference because of its loss of superpower status, Revolution. It failed to act on its proclaimed “Ukraine at the Crossroads” on March 7-8. said Mr. Sherr, but this threat is directed European aspirations, entailing a market Mr. Sherr analyzed the Russian factor in primarily against its imperial legacy and economy and political democracy, and the current Ukrainian historical and politi- identity, as well as its increasingly authori- remained mired in post-Soviet inertia, a cal situation. Speaking about the legacy of tarian political culture. Mr. Putin’s anti- non-transparent business culture, and a Kyivan Rus’, which Russians claim as the Western attitude and traditional Soviet-era drift toward authoritarianism. wellspring of the imperial tradition con- beliefs strike a responsive chord with many Although Ukrainian oligarchs are structed by their 18th century tsars, he Russians, which allows him to advance his already closely involved in European busi- noted that, while some specifics of the current political agenda while Europe and nesses and institutions, and many are keen Russo-Ukrainian relationship may have other Western countries are preoccupied to have a closer relationship with Brussels, James Sherr presents the 46th Shevchenko lecture in Edmonton. changed with Ukraine’s declaration of with their own economic and political Mr. Sherr suggested that President independence in 1991, its fundamental problems. Yanukovych is prepared to do whatever is many years on defense/security sector nature has not. He referred in particular to Mr. Sherr argued that it is in the best necessary to remain in power and would reform and related issues. the complex issue of identity, which has interest of the Euro-Atlantic democracies sooner be president of a country under At present, his activity is evenly divided been at the core of recurring tensions to preserve an independent Ukraine and Russian domination than oversee Ukraine’s between Russia and Ukraine. He is a regu- between the two nations. Citing Vladimir promote the development of its civil soci- integration into Europe only to lose the lar participant in the Harvard JFK School Putin’s recent article on the national ques- ety and cultural institutions. He empha- presidency. Black Sea and Russia Security programs tion in Russia, Mr. Sherr noted its concept sized that Ukraine’s sovereignty must be Between 1995 and May 2008, Mr. Sherr and is a member of the Valdai Club. His of a common Russian civilization with the respected in accordance with international was a fellow of the former Conflict Studies publications include “Russia and the West: Russian nation as its constituent core. This law. From his own experience, he noted Research Center of the Defense Academy of A Reassessment” (U.K. Defense Academy, notion has invariably served to justify major differences between Russian and the United Kingdom. He is a member of the 2008) and “The Mortgaging of Ukraine’s imperial expansion into neighboring Ukrainian worldviews, such as the con- Social Studies Faculty of Oxford University. Independence” (Chatham House, 2010). regions. trasting embrace of power versus a dis- He has been a long-standing adviser to gov- His Chatham House monograph “The Ends Mr. Sherr argued that there have been trust of it, centralization versus regional- ernments in the United Kingdom and the and Means of Russian Influence Abroad” no significant changes in Russia’s attitude ism, and Eurasianism as opposed to European Union, and advised Ukraine for will be published this year.

Major gift from Golemba Fund supports students at Lviv University

EDMONTON, Alberta – The Canadian duct research at the University of Alberta. Having settled in Toronto, Mr. Golemba Traumatized by their wartime experi- Institute of Ukrainian Studies (CIUS) All applicants for the scholarship must worked as an accountant and real estate ence, the Golembas were devoted to recently received a very generous gift from demonstrate a high level of proficiency in agent, while Mrs. Golemba worked as a Ukraine and sought to assist their ancestral a bequest of $450,000 from the estate of English, French, or German and maintain a cashier at an IGA store. He loved to collect homeland by promoting education. Toward Natalia Golemba of Toronto. The establish- high academic standard. stamps and developed an impressive col- the end of her life, Mrs. Golemba sponsored ment of the Bohdan and Natalia Golemba Bohdan Yaroslaw Golemba was born on lection. She embroidered beautifully and students from her native Kopychyntsi. Endowment Fund in May allowed CIUS to August 20, 1908, in Kolomyia. Natalia (née made artificial flowers and wreaths. “Most Their posthumous gift will always remind create the Bohdan and Natalia Golemba Shpikula) was born in Kopychyntsi near of the time,” recalled Mrs. Golemba’s niece others of their sacrifice, generosity and scholarship at the University of Alberta for Ternopil on January 12, 1913. They met at Nadine Shpikula, “they recounted stories of efforts to make a difference in the lives of students in their third to fifth years of a cooperative in Kopychyntsi where they fleeing during the war and of how young people. Bohdan Golemba passed study and for graduate students at the Ivan were working. The Golembas married Ukrainians were discriminated against by away on February 26, 1997, and Natalia Franko National University of Lviv who are before fleeing to Poland during the war. Poles, Germans and Russians.” Golemba on October 8, 2005. enrolled in law or humanities programs. From 1939 the young couple lived in The new fund will enrich the Student Exchange Program, which has been in exis- in 1959 to join the rest of Natalia’s brothers to protect children during the tournament. tence at CIUS since 2006, and will also ben- andGdańsk, sisters Poland, (she cameuntil theyfrom came a family to Canadaof nine Ukraine hits back... The United Nations children’s organiza- efit Lviv students who wish to study or con- children). tion UNICEF has said that Ukraine is one of (Continued from page 2) Europe’s largest hubs for sexual exploita- tion and human trafficking. 2012,” he said. “Activities must be orga- nized for them, and more than 16,000 With reporting by Reuters, UNIAN and camps will be set up on school premises. Interfax. Parents are also advised to move children Copyright 2012, RFE/RL Inc. Reprinted out of cities where matches will be held. with the permission of Radio Free Europe/ Ukraine must be ready – many people will Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW, visit who are not only interested in foot- Washington DC 20036 (see http://www. ball.” rferl.org/content/ukrainian-child-rights- He said President Viktor Yanukovych ombudsman-issues-euro-2012-pedophile- had ordered police to take extra measures warning/24596579.html).

their awareness of the political situation in European... the country publicly clear and to seek opportunities to visit political detainees in (Continued from page 6) prison, or to attend in their private capacity and not as VIPs; OSCE standards would strengthen the 17. Instructs its president to forward this credibility of Ukraine’s OSCE chairmanship, resolution to the EEAS [European External due to take place in 2013; Action Service] the Council, the Commission, 16. While expressing its hope for the suc- the member-states, the president, govern- cess of the European Football Championship ment and Parliament of Ukraine and the 2012 in Poland and Ukraine, calls on Parliamentary Assemblies of the Council of European politicians who wish to attend Europe and the OSCE [Organization for Natalia and Bohdan Golemba Euro 2012 matches in Ukraine to make Security and Cooperation in Europe]. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 No. 25 Euro Cup opening ceremony evokes wonderment PARSIPPANY, N.J. – More than 800 per- nist Adam Gyorgy, who performed Fredric formers from 63 countries took part in the Chopin’s Étude in A minor (Op. 25, No.11). mass choreographed opening ceremonies Italian DJ Karmatronic followed the concert at the National Stadium in Warsaw prior to with his modern musical stylings. the Poland-Greece match on June 8. The ceremony concluded with the per- The 12-minute show kicked off with the formers gathered in the center of the soccer ringing of bells that were lowered from the field, forming the Euro 2012 logo. stadium’s roof, followed by costumed chil- Marco Balich, who put together the dren dancing and Hungarian classical pia- opening ceremonies for the 2006 Turin

UEFA.com The final display of the Euro 2012 logo during the opening ceremonies on June 8. Winter Olympics, also choreographed this tournament. opening ceremony. It was estimated that Poland, in Group A, co-hosts the tourna- 150 million people viewed the event that ment in Wroclaw, Wasraw, Poznan and kicked-off the tournament. Gdansk. Group A also includes Russia, the Organizers claimed that the ceremony Czech Republic and Greece. Poland tied symbolized unity, rivalry and passion, as Greece 1-1 on June 8, and against Russia UNIAN well as incorporated the tournament’s flo- 1-1 on June 12. Russia leads the group with Performers move a large ball onto the soccer field used in the ceremonies preceding ral motifs, using the national colors of four points, followed by the Czechs (3), the Ukraine-Sweden match on June 11. Poland and Ukraine, the co-hosts of the Poland (2) and Greece (1). Sheva’s... (Continued from page 1) first half before temporarily putting his team ahead with a tap-in off a Kim Kallstrom long cross. Ukraine coach Blokhin had emphasized the youth of his squad prior to the match, only to change his thinking with the start- ing line-up. A mere two players, Yevhen Selin and Yevhen Konoplyanka, made their debuts, and the team’s experience proved invaluable as the co-hosts quickly settled down amid a raucous atmosphere. Sweden seemed to relax a bit after Ibrahimovic’s close-range finish past Ukrainian goalie Andriy Pyatov, and Shevchenko instantly took advantage by head- ing Oleh Gusev’s cross past Sweden’s goalten- UEFA.com Andrii Shevchenko heads in the first goal for Ukraine, equalizing against the Swedes 1-1 three minutes after Zlotan Ibrahimovic drew first blood for Sweden in the 52nd minute. der, Andreas Isaksson. The home crowd The European Championship, playing at erupted with joy, and the noise grew deafen- home, the opening match and we win 2-1. ing six minutes later as the 35-year-old’s And well-deserved, too; we played very header from a corner kick by Konoplyanka well. I am so happy, so emotional. A big found its way in at the near post. thanks to the lads for playing a really good Shevchenko’s list of memories from a game.” great career added one more – one that Coach Oleg Blokhin: “Andriy didn’t will undoubtedly stand with any of them. believe me when I told him I had a dream In the city where he first made his name he would score twice. We were the better and now is set to end his playing days with team in the first half, apart from Dynamo Kyiv, Sheva sent the stadium and Ibrahimovic’s chance that hit the post. We the whole nation into bliss and gave team didn’t play well in the dying minutes, we Ukraine all three of its Group D points. were under a lot of pressure to hold on to this result. I have only one wish – to go to Quotable quotes our training base and have a rest. UEFA.com Andrii Shevchenko hoists the Man of the Match award during a press conference in Shevchenko after the match: “I have so Everybody’s very tired.” (Quotes courtesy Kyiv following the June 11 match against Sweden. many emotions right now. This is fantastic! of UEFA.com.)

youths, who instigated a brief brawl after was a 6-year-old boy Timur, whose brief Yet even Timur’s celebration became Ukraine welcomes... which one Lviv native was arrested. celebratory cheer of the winning goal politicized. It soon became known that (Continued from page 1) Ukraine’s climate has been remarkably during the Ukraine-Sweden match was Timur’s father is National Deputy Valerii tame compared to Poland, where numer- captured on video and went viral on the Shamanov, who abandoned the Yulia “A never-ending source of sensational- ous conflicts and arrests were reported, Internet, earning the adoration of mil- Tymoshenko Bloc after Mr. Yanukovych’s ist stories, the country is frequently ste- including a melee between Russian and lions. election, and supported such controver- reotyped and patronized, but in all other Polish fans on the day their respective Indeed Timur was emotional through- sial legislation as the language bill matters it is mostly ignored,” Mr. teams were to play that caused police to out the match, crying when Swedish star approved on June 5 in its first reading. Parusinski wrote of Ukraine. employ a water cannon to calm them. Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored the game’s first “Timur is not to blame that his father, a The only reported conflict in Ukraine Polish authorities said about 184 fans goal and put Ukraine down 1-0, reported corrupt politician, approved the budget related to Euro 2012 was on June 9 in from Poland and Russia were arrested in the Reuters news agency. with the Party of Regions at the command Lviv, where overzealous Russian soccer the lead-up to the June 12 match in “The next tears were happy – ‘I cried of [National Deputy Mikhail] Chechetov,” fans, celebrating their team’s 4-1 victory Warsaw, which ended in a 1-1 tie. with joy’ after the winning goal,” Timur wrote Vitaly Manko, a soccer fan who over the Czechs, angered several local Further bolstering Ukraine’s image said. broke the news on his Facebook page. No. 25 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 11 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 No. 25

serious hearings, both parliamentary and mission of envoys from the European ful to show tolerance and good will to for- NEWSBRIEFS public, on the issues of how the budget Parliament would be “a breakthrough that eign visitors.The head of the Youth funds were used in preparation for the will help Ukraine to address problems con- Commission of the Lviv Archeparchy of the (Continued from page 2) Euro 2012,” Verkhovna Rada Vice- cerning the rule of law and the indepen- UGCC, Father Taras Mylian, said he is con- John and Queen refused payment for the Chairman Mykola Tomenko (Yulia dence of judiciary.” He added, “I hope it will vinced that the championship is an oppor- performance. Admission will be free and Tymoshenko Bloc) said at a briefing in Kyiv contribute to restoring mutual confidence tunity for Ukrainians, and Lviv residents in the concert will be broadcast live. During on June 8. Hopefully, the Procurator in EU-Ukraine relations.” (Ukrinform) particular, to demonstrate their good General’s Office “probably, not now but a behavior, intelligence and morality, and to the concert, the foundation will raise funds Teens arrested for damaging memorial for a new joint project of Elton John’s and little later, will still dot all the ‘i’s in what we show Ukraine as an open and friendly Ms. Pinchuk’s anti-AIDS foundations. believe was a massive embezzlement of RIVNE, Ukraine – Officials in Rivne said country, according to a June 8 report from (Interfax-Ukraine) budget funds under the aegis of prepara- that three young men were arrested for Zaxid.net. He said, “It is important to show tions for the Euro 2012,” the national depu- vandalizing a memorial to Holocaust vic- that we, Ukrainians, are people of high ‘Free Yulia’ T-shirts distributed ty said. (Interfax-Ukraine) tims in the city, Radio Liberty reported on morality and that football is a chance to June 8. The memorial to 17,500 Jewish citi- meet and not for the mass consumption of Liv v – Before the Germany-Portugal EuroParliament sends observers to Ukraine beer and immoral festivities. The fact that match on June 9 in Lviv, activists of the zens of Rivne murdered during the Nazi KYIV – European politicians Pat Cox and we can have fun should be shown through united opposition distributed T-shirts occupation in the 1940s was severely dam- Aleksander Kwasniewski will monitor court a friendly word, through mutual respect, depicting the leader of the Batkivshchyna aged on June 5 by vandals, who destroyed proceedings involving imprisoned former through support and understanding.” Party, Yulia Tymoshenko, and reading “Free the tiles on the complex and arranged the Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko on behalf (Religious Information Service of Ukraine) Yulia!” Stepan Kubiv explained, “Our activ- broken tiles to make up vulgar and insulting of the European Parliament (EP), EP ists distributed T-shirts depicting Ms. words. The arrested teenagers, who were UWC president, Freedom House VP meet President Martin Schulz said on June 7. Mr. Tymoshenko near the Arena Lviv stadium between 17 and 19 years old, have been Schulz made the decision after meetings NEW YORK – Ukrainian World Congress before the match and on the central streets charged with hooliganism. They face up to with the European politicians, Ukrainian (UWC) President Eugene Czolij met on May of Lviv,” the head of the headquarters of the four years in jail if found guilty. Rivne’s Prime Minister Mykola Azarov and Ms. Jewish community was scheduled to receive 15 in New York with Arch Puddington, vice- united opposition in Lviv region. He did not Tymoshenko, the press service of the EP president for research at Freedom House, to mention how many T-shirts were given out a delegation from Israel on June 13. president reported. “Pat Cox, former (Religious Information Service of Ukraine) discuss issues related to current events in to fans. According to the united opposition, European Parliament president, and Ukraine. Discussions focused primarily on a German fan named Justas said that he Aleksander Kwasniewski, former president UCU statement on language bill the Russian Federation’s attempts to impede was familiar with the situation of Yulia of Poland, will monitor court proceedings Ukraine’s Euro-integration and breaches by LVIV – The community of the Ukrainian Tymoshenko. “I believe that you will be fine involving imprisoned former Ukrainian Ukraine’s governing authorities of funda- Catholic University on June 11 posted a soon and Ms. Tymoshenko will be set free,” Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko on behalf mental human rights and freedoms, an statement on the passage in its first read- he said. (Interfax-Ukraine) of the European Parliament,” read the state- example of which is the imprisonment of ing of a language bill that would boost the ment. Mr. Schulz said that the EP’s envoys former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko. In Misuse of Euro 2012 funds is suspected status of the Russian language. The text of expected to meet Prime Minister Azarov, as addition to addressing the state of democra- KYIV – After the Euro 2012, the well as with Ms. Tymoshenko’s family and the statement reads: “As the parliamentary cy in Ukraine in its reports, the UWC presi- Ukrainian opposition will insist on an lawyers. He also said that Messrs. Cox and elections near, the emergence of this bill dent encouraged Freedom House to also inquiry into the use of funds in the prepa- Kwasniewski would have full access to all was easy to predict – just as with approach- deal with the pressure exerted by Russia on ration for the championship. “We have documents relevant to the case, as well as ing thunderclouds, it is easy to anticipate a Ukrainian sovereignty. Mr. Czolij further sug- decided that the day after the closing of the lawyers, prosecutors and other officials downpour. However, the consequences of gested that reports related to Ukraine be Euro 2012, the opposition will prepare involved.” Mr. Schultz expressed hope that a this prediction for the country are not the issued in Ukrainian as well as English. The same grace: Ukraine is again put on the UWC, founded in 1967, is an international brink of civil conflict.” The statement says coordinating body for Ukrainian communi- the purpose of the bill is not to protect the ties in the diaspora representing the inter- Russian language in Ukraine, but imple- ests of over 20 million Ukrainians. It has menting a political order that was formu- member-organizations in 32 countries and lated not from the Ukrainian perspective TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL Walter Honcharyk (973) 292-9800 x3040 ties with Ukrainians in 14 additional coun- and which is extremely dangerous for tries. (Ukrainian World Congress) or e-mail [email protected] Ukraine. The UCU called on Ukrainian soci- ety, especially its Russian-speaking popula- German MEPs to visit Tymoshenko tion, to oppose this political provocation. SERVICES PROFESSIONALS KYIV – Germany’s Rebecca Harms, the The university encouraged Ukrainian soci- president of Group of the Greens/ ety to realize that the political games that European Free Alliance in the European are being engineered by the regime around Parliament, and German Greens MEP the language issue are inherently immoral Werner Schulz obtained a permit to visit and criminal in their consequences. In this former Prime Minister Tymoshenko in situation, the country needs to mobilize Kharkiv’s Central Clinical Hospital No. 5 on healthy patriotism and a sober sense, the June 13, according to Bettina Rid, a spokes- UCU noted. (Religious Information Service woman for Ms. Harms. After the meeting, of Ukraine) the MEPs planned to watch the Germany UGCC urges respect during Euro 2012 vs. Netherlands soccer match at the Metalist Stadium in Kharkiv. Ms. Harms LVIV – The Lviv Archeparchy of the and Mr. Schulz will be the first German pol- Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church called on iticians to visit Ms. Tymoshenko at the faithful to demonstrate good will toward Kharkiv hospital. The MEPs said they foreigners during the Euro 2012 soccer intended to brief the press on the results of championship. The UGCC said it sees the the visit in Kyiv. (Ukrinform) Euro 2012 as an opportunity to win over foreign football fans and called on the faith- (Continued on page 13)

managed to capture Georgia’s Abkhazian U.S. ambassador... and Ossetian enclaves, into which it is con- stantly pouring endless aid. At the same ОКСАНА СТАНЬКО (Continued from page 3) Ліцензований продавець time, its overall influence in the South Страхування Життя to forge a pragmatic partnership on Iran, Caucasus diminished; Georgia still aspires OKSANA STANKO to NATO membership and appears willing Licensed Life Insurance Agent North Korea, Afghanistan and arms control, Ukrainian National Assn., Inc. while sidestepping Georgia, human rights to offer basing rights to the United States. and other contentious issues. Dr. McFaul is unwise to continue to poke 32 Peachtree Rd. But Russia did not overcome the shock his finger into Mr. Putin’s wounded pride. Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 Reminding Russia about rejected offers of Tel.: 908-872-2192; email: [email protected] of the 2008 war as easily as the West. Mr. Putin and the Russian ruling elite were geopolitical selloffs and chatter about non- humiliated after their advancing troops existent (from the Kremlin’s point of view) OPPORTUNITIES were halted at the gates of Tbilisi. A tactical “common interests in Syria, Iran, etc.” will victory turned into a strategic defeat under go nowhere so long as the Kremlin sees Western pressure and the fear of Western itself surrounded by conspiracies and WANT IMPACT? Earn extra income! warships deployed to the Black Sea while deadly enemies – internal and external. The Ukrainian Weekly is looking U.S. military transport planes brought Run your advertisement here, for advertising sales agents. humanitarian aid to the Georgian capital. The article above is reprinted from in The Ukrainian Weekly’s For additional information contact Fearful that the West was seeking to Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission from CLASSIFIEDS section. Walter Honcharyk, Advertising Manager, intervene militarily against the advancing its publisher, the Jamestown Foundation, The Ukrainian Weekly, 973-292-9800, ext 3040. Russian troops (which it did not), Moscow www.jamestown.org. No. 25 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 13

al of the program, Ukraine received the first NEWSBRIEFS tranche of an IMF loan worth $1.89 billion. On December 22, 2010, the IMF allocated (Continued from page 12) the second tranche of a stand-by loan in the Ukraine considers seeking new IMF aid amount of $1 billion in special drawing rights, or $1.5 billion. (Ukrinform) KYIV – Ukraine is considering seeking a new aid package from the International Picasso dumped near Lazarenko mansion Monetary Fund (IMF) in 2013 after the NOVATO, Calif. – A Picasso lithograph expiration of its existing $15.6 billion bail- that was stolen when about 100 teens It is with deep sorrow and heavy heart that we share out, which has been frozen since last March, President Viktor Yanukovych said in broke into and partied at the abandoned with our family and friends that our beloved an interview with Bloomberg news on June California mansion of imprisoned former mother, grandmother, sister and aunt 13. “We’re in talks with the IMF. We don’t Ukrainian Prime Minister Pavlo Lazarenko rule out financing starting from next year,” was discovered on June 12 by the side of a Mr. Yanukovych said. The president nearby road, reported NewsCore. “Femme Maria Porytko described the IMF program as a “barome- au chignon” (1947), valued at about ter” that shows the former Soviet republic $40,000, was missing after the illegal party passed into eternity on Tuesday, May 22, 2012, in New York City. where it has problems and where “every- on May 27 at the secluded home, along thing is fine.” Mr. Yanukovych expressed with candlesticks, computers and clothing, Funeral services were held at St. Andrew’s Ukrainian Catho- the Marin Independent Journal reported. hope that Ukraine’s GDP would probably lic Church in Campbell Hall, NY, followed by interment at Holy advance about 3.9 percent for the whole Mr. Lazarenko is serving time in a federal year, buoyed by Ukraine’s co-hosting of the prison near Los Angeles; he is to be Ghost Ukrainian Cemetery. European soccer championships with released in November. Marin County resi- Poland. “We hope that toward the end of dent Greg Atamaniuk discovered the litho- In deep sorrow: the year economic growth will gradually graph propped up against a tree as he set pick up. We also hope Euro 2012 will add a off for a hike near Mr. Lazarenko’s mansion. son - Nestor Porytko with wife Christine little,” he said. In July 2010, the IMF “It’s something that you don’t find usually daughter - Tania Porytko Thomson with husband Larry approved a stand-by program for Ukraine on your morning hikes,” he told local news grandchildren - Andrew Thomson under which it was ready to provide about media. Mr. Atamaniuk turned the Picasso $15.5 billion. Immediately after the approv- print in to the police. (NewsCore) - Arianna Thomson brother - Dr. Julian Gnoj with wife Olia Gnoj and family sister - Olia Iwaskiw and family Ділимося сумною вісткою що у вівторок, sister-in-law - Oksana Gnoj and family 5 червня 2012 року несподівано упокоївся в Бозі наш найдорожчий і незабутній чоловік, Батько і сват Extended family in the United States and Ukraine св. п. Eternal memory! Мирон Стебельський A fortieth day Mass will be held on Tuesday, July 3, 2012, народжений 1 серпня 1927 року в Бориславі, Україна. колишній довго- at 8:30 a.m. at St. George Ukrainian Catholic Church in New York. літній голова Українського спортово-виховного т-ва „чорноморська In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to січ“ і Української спортової Централі америки і канади (УсЦак). St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church in Hunter, NY. У глибокому смутку залишилися: дружина - леся кузиків донька - Зірка кос з чоловіком орестом сваха - Марія кос та ближча і дальша родина в канаді й Україні. Парастас відбувся в п’ятницю, 8 червня, в похоронному заведенні Union Funeral Home, а похорон - в суботу, 9 червня, з Української католицької церкви св. івана Хрестителя в Нюарку, Н. Дж. Похований на цвинтарі Hollywood в Юніон, Н. Дж. Вічна Йому пам’ять! Пожертви в пам’ять Покійного просимо складати на Україське спортово-виховне т-во „чорноморська січ“ - Ukrainian Athletic Association “Chornomorska Sitch”, 60-C North Jefferson Rd., Whippany, NJ 07981

With great sadness and a heavy heart we shWith great sadness and a heavy heart we share news of the passing of our wife and mother Prof. Daria “Chaika” Bouadana née Czajkowskyj on May 28, 2012 As her friends and family know, Chaika lived life with passion and flair. Her sense of creativity permeated and influenced all aspects of her life - her family and friends, her physics students, and even her devotion to her shoes as well as her hallmark identifica- tion with the color purple. Her unique spirit will be unforgettable. Chaika will be missed deeply by her husband Daniel, and her children Ghilaine and Matthieu May her memory live on forever! Memorial donations may be made to: The Ukrainian Museum, or The Daria Bouadana Memorial Scholarship Fund checks payable to: City Tech Foundation 102 Francisco Ave., Little Falls, NJ 07424 memo: Daria Bouadana Scholarship 177B 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 No. 25

NOTES ON PEOPLE Romankiw honored by colleagues in D.C. Ukrainian Canadian on Time’s 100 Most Influential People list PARSIPPANY, N.J. – Ukrainian Canadian have spun off the company Liquid Metal Donald Sadoway, the current John F. Elliott Battery Corp. (LMBC), which is supported Professor of Materials Chemistry at the by many high-profile investors, including Massachusetts Institute of Technology, is Bill Gates and Total. on Time Magazine’s list of The 100 Most Not only does Dr. Sadoway want to Influential People in the World for 2012 improve batteries, but also mentor his stu- that premiered on April 18. dents simultaneously; “In a battery, I strive According to Time magazine, “they are to maximize electrical potential. When the people who inspire us, entertain us, mentoring, I strive to maximize human challenge us and change our world.” potential.” As an energy engineer, Dr. Sadoway is Dr. Sadoway recently appeared on the researching how to improve batteries in popular talk show TED (Technology, relation to alternative energy. These liquid- Entertainment and Design), which show- metal batteries are being designed to store cases new ideas. At TED, Dr. Sadoway dis- large amounts of wind and solar power cussed how small prototypes of this bat- and keep it preserved so that it can be used tery are working. “If we are going to get at any given time, even when there is nei- this country out of its current energy situa- WASHINGTON – Dr. Lubomyr Romankiw (center), one of this year’s inductees into the ther wind nor sun. tion, we can’t just conserve our way out. U.S. National Inventors Hall of Fame, is toasted during a luncheon in his honor organized The problem Dr. Sadoway faces with this We can’t just drill our way out. We can’t by two dozen of his Washington-area Ukrainian American friends and colleagues on May “grid-level storage” idea is that it must pro- bomb our way out. We’re going to do it the 3, the day after he received his award at the Smithsonian Museum. Dr. Romankiw and duce batteries that are large enough to be old-fashioned, American way. We’re going his partner at IBM, David Thompson, were inducted into the Hall of Fame for their inven- able to supply many homes while at the to invent our way out, working together.” tion of the thin-film magnetic head, which contributed to the success of the computer disk same time be economically cheap, which is Dr. Sadoway attended the University of drive industry by increasing the density of data that could be stored on magnetic disks what he and his research team are trying to Toronto, where he completed his B.A. in while decreasing its size and the cost of storage. In the Ukrainian community, he is also do by using liquid metal to create the mas- engineering science and both his M.A. and sive batteries. Ph.D. in chemical metallurgy. He currently known as the “nachalnyi plastun” (chief scout) of Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization. Dr. Sadoway and some of his students teaches engineering at MIT. Sitting and standing beside him are (from left): Dr. Larysa Onyshkevych, Andrew Bihun, Dr. Lubomyr Onyshkevych and Christine Shepelavy. – Yaro Bihun

them enough,” Mr. Nynka noted. Receives Ford award for community service As part of his research, Mr. Nynka, a for- Ph.D. student mer member of the editorial staff of The Ukrainian Weekly, plans to analyze more awarded Fulbright than 2,000 blogs and traditional news sto- by Ana Sebescen ries in Kyiv and Lviv. “While there has been increasing inter- COLLEGE PARK, Md. – University of est in research on the relationship between Maryland doctoral student Andrew Nynka new media and public discourse, I expect has been awarded a Fulbright Scholarship Andrew’s project to provide an important to examine how so-called new media shape contribution to our understanding of how the public agenda in Ukraine. this dynamic works in an emerging democ- “I’m extremely honored to have been racy,” said Mr. Nynka’s advisor, Associate selected for a Fulbright grant to Ukraine, Prof. Ira Chinoy of the university’s Philip and excited by the prospect of teaching and Merrill College of Journalism. “Andrew’s conducting research in a foreign country, fluency in the language and his familiarity particularly one in which truly indepen- with Ukraine’s culture and history will pro- dent journalism and democracy have a rel- vide rich context for his study.” atively short history,” he said. “While pre- From September of this year through paring my application, I got invaluable May 2013, Mr. Nynka will work in collabo- advice and guidance from the university’s ration with Prof. Yevhen Fedchenko at the National Scholarships Office, as well as National University of Kyiv Mohyla John Hynansky and his son Michael in Las Vegas at the Salute to Dealers awards event. from faculty at Merrill College. I couldn’t Academy and Profs. Ihor Balynskyi and have done it without them and I can’t thank Olena Dzhedzhora at the Ukrainian Neenah, Wis. – In recognition of his out- Klitschko Brothers Foundation, which is Catholic University in Lviv. standing corporate citizenship and contri- focused on developing Ukraine’s youth. Mr. Nynka earned a bachelor’s degree in butions to the community, John Hynansky During his 20 years of work in Ukraine, political science and economics from earned the Salute to Dealers award from Mr. Hynansky has continuously initiated Muhlenberg College and a master’s degree Ford Motor Co. Mr. Hynansky was one of six charitable activities for children’s hospitals in journalism from New York University. winners chosen for his dedication to the and orphanages, with donations of clothing, In 2004, he covered the Orange local community, service and peers among furniture and other essential articles. Revolution in Ukraine as Kyiv bureau chief more than 8,500 Ford and Lincoln dealers Mr. Hynansky and the Ford Motor Co. for The Ukrainian Weekly. While at the from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, contributed to the opening of an ambulance paper, he also covered the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics and wrote a variety of Europe, Asia, the Caribbean and Central station in the city of Lviv in 1997. Former news stories and features. America, Africa and the Middle East. First Lady Hillary Clinton, then a U.S. sena- After that, he worked as a general Mr. Hynansky earned the Salute to tor, took part in the official presentation. assignment reporter for the Daily Record in Dealers award because of his continuous In the summer 1995 when a sanitary Parsippany, N.J., and covered education for support of the Ukrainian community in the system broke down in Kharkiv, Mr. the Daily Journal in Vineland, N.J. United States and Ukraine, and his tireless Hynansky’s dealership, Winner played a Mr. Nynka entered the doctoral program effort in supporting disadvantaged children significant role in assisting more than 150 at Merrill College of Journalism in 2009. and families. children to prevent the spread of disease. His research interests include the future of Mr. Hynansky is a partner of Hope & Salute to Dealers is conducted under the journalism, its impact on democracy and Homes for Children, a United Kingdom- guidance of Edsel B. Ford II, a member of public discourse, and journalism history. based organization in Ukraine that contrib- Ford’s board of directors. The program was Mr. Nynka plans to complete his disserta- utes to the social rehabilitation of families launched in 2001 to demonstrate the com- Andrew Nynka tion when he returns from Ukraine in 2013. in Ukraine. pany’s commitment to its thousands of In the town of Kapitanivka in Ukraine, dealer principals who step beyond their “Notes on people” is a feature geared toward reporting on the achievements of Mr. Hynansky supports the local school sys- showroom doors to make a difference tem with facility improvements, including where they live and work. members of the Ukrainian community and the Ukrainian National Association. roofing, interior remodeling, computers, Mr. Ford and three other judges selected All submissions should be concise due to space limitations and must include gym equipment, a new playground and winners from a total global field of 100 the person’s UNA branch number (if applicable). Items will be published as transportation. nominees from the U.S., Canada, Brazil, soon as possible after their receipt. Mr. Hynansky also supports the Europe, Mexico and Asia. No. 25 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 15 Plast New York celebrates “Oath Commemoration Day

by Oksana Kuzyszyn NEW YORK – In 2012 Plast Ukrainian Scouting Organization around the world is marking its centennial. That milestone was celebrated on Saturday, April 21, by the New York branch of Plast with its special “Plast Oath Commemoration Day.” Hundreds of people – scouts of all ages, “novatstvo” (cub scouts), “yunatstvo” (teen- age scouts), “starshi plastuny” (young adult scouts) and “seniory” (senior scouts), along with parents and guests – gathered in the Plast building on Second Avenue to partici- pate in this tribute. They came to express their honor and respect for this beloved organization, which for 100 years has nurtured Ukrainian youth, through both favorable and sometimes difficult and dangerous times – notably when Plast was banned in Ukraine by its occupiers but nevertheless continued to exist secretly. The celebration started with a prayer Yunatstvo (boy and girl scouts age 12-17) from the New York branch of Plast. and singing of the Plast hymn. Adam Hapij, who developed and led the ceremony, pre- Oleksander Tysovsky, filled the room. tional slogan for this anniversary year: “Be older scouts, parents and guests were seat- sented a historical slide show about the After a greeting from the representative the spark!” ed behind them. Witty skits were inter- first Plast Oath taken in Lviv in 1912, along of the U.S. National Executive Board by Four huge letters spelling the Plast twined with the boisterous singing of many with slides of many other Plast oaths taken Zorianna Stawnychy, the head of the New greeting “SKOB” were unveiled and pre- Plast songs by all present. An atmosphere in succeeding decades in various countries York branch of Plast, Talia Danysh, spoke sented to the audience. These letters, fash- of warmth, joy and celebration prevailed. around the world. It was truly moving to passionately about the importance of this ioned out of raw wood were beautifully After the bonfire, in accordance with witness the same oath being repeated over special day. She paid tribute to those mem- transformed, painted and decorated, by the Plast tradition, Ms. Danysh requested a and over again, and to understand the sig- bers who founded and sustained the New younger scouts as a tribute to the Plast cen- moment of silence to remember those Plast nificance of this important step in every York branch with their tremendous work tenary and as a memento for future genera- members who have passed on to the Plast scount’s life. and financial support, and who rallied tions. Each letter has special significance “Vichna Vatra” (Eternal Bonfire). To con- The pivotal part of the solemn ceremony Ukrainian youth to join Plast in the early and represents an important element of clude this glorious event, everyone in the occurred when all the Plast members recit- years. She also acknowledged current the Plast philosophy: S – strength, K – jam-packed Plast New York headquarters ed the Plast vow, called “Plastovyi Obit” in members and parents for their continued beauty, O – caution and B – speed. formed a big circle, held hands and gently unison. Emotions ran high when these involvement in this organization and After a short break and delicious snacks, sang the traditional “Nich Vzhe Ide” song. words, written by Plast’s founder, Dr. reminded the audience about the inspira- a symbolic Plast bonfire took place indoors, As a remembrance, all present received ably led by three yunaky – Mychajlo a button with the 100th anniversary slogan Antoniv, Danylo Jaremczuk and “Be the Spark,” along with delicious home- Christopher Kuzemka. The younger scouts made cookies, shaped like symbols of the formed a half circle on the floor, reminis- Plast greeting. cent of a traditional “vatra” outdoors, while Translated by Anna Ortynska.

he krainian eekly T Uin print and online W Twice as nice for one low price! $70 ($60 for members of the UNA)

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Novatstvo, the youngest members of Plast, during the ceremony. 973-292-9800, x 3042 [email protected]

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LVIV – Members of the Chornomorski Khvyli sorority of Plast Ukrainian Scouting The Ukrainian Weekly is a proud supporter Organization blessed their new flag on April 27 at the Church of the Jesuits in Lviv. The blessing took place at the beginning of a weekend celebrating the 100th anniversary of of our Ukrainian community endeavors! the first Plast Oath, which was administered in Lviv in April 1912. 16 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 No. 25 No. 25 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 17

Art works by Nicholas Bervinchak exhibited in Pottsville, Pa. by Michael Buryk (Anna Sten) (1935), and also lesser known ones like “Anthracite’s Breast Work” (1973) with its unusual bluish POTTSVILLE, Pa. – For the first time since 1989, a major tinge. Among the local Ukrainian families providing artwork exhibit of the artwork of Nicholas Bervinchak took place in were the Olenicks and Pellishes. Pottsville, Pa. The event, “Etching a Life Style: The Life and This writer gave two talks on Saturday, April 21, on Work of Nicholas Bervinchak,” was held at the Schuylkill Bervinchak’s life and his artwork in the context of Schuylkill County Historical Society. County’s mining community. Alexis Buryk assisted by taking Bervinchak was born of Ukrainian Lemko immigrants photos and doing videography of the exhibit. She also creat- parents in 1903 in Schuylkill County. He was a world- ed a special commemorative poster for the exhibit using the renowned artist famous for his etchings of daily life in the image of Bervinchak’s self-portrait. The poster is available anthracite region during the 1930s and also his ecclesiastical for purchase through the Historical Society. painting and decorating in the Eastern rite churches of Among the many people in attendance were Jim Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Bervinchak, the artist’s son, and his family. Also, Sharon Nine local families and the Historical Society loaned more Mauri and Gary MacCready were on hand to share recollec- than 50 pieces of his art for the exhibit. Included in this tions of their granddad Harry Olenick, another Ukrainian group were a few photos of etchings and oil paintings from Lemko immigrant who was a major force in the independent the private collection of Marion Bervinchak-Leschey, the art- (bootleg) coal mining business in the Minersville area. ist’s daughter. Some of Bervinchak’s etchings in the 1930s featured On display in the exhibit were some of his famous etch- views of local bootleg miners and their families. The ings such as “Buck Run Colliery” (1933) and “Meditation” Bervinchak and Olenick families were closely connected in

Bervinchak exhibit poster by Alexis Buryk. the local Ukrainian community and were neighbors in the Primrose, Pa., area. Altogether more than 300 people attend- ed the exhibit over the week-long period. Future Bervinchak exhibits are now under discussion in other locations. Also, a digital online exhibit of Mr. Bervinchak’s etchings and paintings is in the works.

Mike Buryk is a Ukrainian American writer whose research focuses on Lemko and Ukrainian genealogy and the history of Alexis Buryk Ukrainians in the United States. Readers may contact him at: At the exhibit (from left) are: James, Dolores and Donna Bervinchak, Mike Buryk, Sharon Mauri (Olenick) and [email protected]. His website is: http://www.buryk. Gary MacCready (Olenick). com/our_patch/.

Pysanka shines in debut in Puerto Rico

by Sophia Sushailo SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Professonal Ukrainian pysanky were displayed here for the first time in the art history of Puerto Rico. FERINART (http://ferinart.org/english/) is a biennial international arts and crafts fair, which takes place in historic Old San Juan in Puerto Rico. The festival has hosted an array of artists and artisans from all over the world since 2002. Zulma Santiago, director of FERINART, rightfully calls it a cel- ebration of cultural diversity, “most important in the Caribbean and Americas.” For many years, FERINART has been enthusiastically sup- ported by UNESCO, and it has been recognized international- ly with prestigious awards. This year, the festival took place over the course of 10 days, May 4-13. Artists and artisans representing more than Rafael Contreras 35 countries participated in FERINART’s interactive work- At the FERINART opening ceremony photo (from left) are: Sofika Zielyk (pysanky artist), Sophia Sushailo (organizer of shops, demonstrations and displays. the Ukrainian Community in Puerto Rico), Denise Bax (UNESCO representative) and Jorge Santini (San Juan mayor). Renowned New York-based pysanka artist Sofika Zielyk represented Ukrainian pysanka art. Ms. Zielyk’s display of her beautiful pysanky in the Ukraine booth became an immediate be made in Puerto Rico from now on. success. She noted, “Most people in Puerto Rico had never FERINART can be described as a temporary International folk seen a pysanka before. They not only appreciated the beauty and modern art museum situated outdoors, under open skies. of the decorated egg, but also wanted to know about the his- During FERINART, one simple walk among the booths allowed tory, legends and symbolism of this ancient tradition. It was guests to experience art from nearly all of the continents. my pleasure to introduce them to this art form.” “For me personally it was wonderful to meet artists and For some it was hard at first to believe that pysanky were artisans from all over the world and learn about their art tra- art creations made with such genuine material as an avian ditions,” said Ms. Zielyk, “Where else could I meet carpet egg. There were many interested local community members weavers from Uzbekistan, quilt makers form Columbia, wood as well as tourists and visitors to the island, as the Port of San carvers from Ecuador and silversmiths from Macedonia?” Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is a major tourist destination, Ms. Zielyk, who was visiting Puerto Rico for the first time, strategically situated at the maritime crossroads in the further commented on her experiences, mentioning the Caribbean. I realized I was using four languages at FERINART friendliness of the people, the beauty of Old San Juan and in the course of a day; speaking Ukrainian with Ms. Zielyk, the good coffee. “If invited again, I would gladly participate Spanish with fellow islanders, English with tourists and in the FERINART festival,” she said, adding, “I have wonder- Russian with my new Uzbek artist friends. ful memories.” FERINART visitors were further amazed when Ms. Zielyk Ukrainian community organizers have expressed hope demonstrated pysanka-making – a simple and yet extremely that Ukrainian art, both folk and modern, can be further rep- complicated technique. The egg-painting workshop was also resented in the future at FERINART 2014 and overall in translated word-for-word from English into Spanish. This was Puerto Rico. Readers are invited to offer ideas, suggestions probably the first pysanka made in Puerto Rico, and probably and inspiration by contacting Sophia Sushailo, organizer of Sophia Sushailo the first in the Caribbean. Judging by the interest sparked by the Ukrainian community in Puerto Rico, at ukrainiansinpuer- Sofika Zielyk explains the art of pysanky at FERINART. the demonstration, it is expected that many more pysanky will torico@gmailcom; 787-342-5219; Facebook: Sophia Sushailo. 18 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 No. 25

COMMUNITY CHRONICLE UNWLA Branch 98 raises funds for scholarship program

by Irene Krawczuk Main St. in Matawan, N.J. Branch 98 President Victoria Mischenko is the office Hlmdel o , N.J. – Ukrainian National administrator and branch members Ms. Women’s League of America Branch 98 of Bilowchtchuk, Anna Krawczuk and M. Holmdel/Middletown, N.J., dedicated the Orysia Jacus serve on the National UNWLA month of April 2012 to campaigning and Scholarship Program Committtee that has raising funds for the UNWLA Scholarship/ been chaired by member Maria Polanskyj Children-Student Sponsorship Program. since 2002. Member Nadia Jaworiw is a As part of that effort, a fund-raiser was volunteer for the program and was suc- hosted on April 20 at the home of Luba cessful in raising over $1,000 during the Bilowchtchuk, the Branch’s Scholarship month of April. chairwoman. It was a festive Stella & Dot Through members’ dedication and jewelry event conducted by stylist Mimi countless volunteer hours, the Program Polanskyj with commission proceeds bene- continues to serve those in need. However, fiting the program. Amidst tasty hors the demand is ever growing; in Ukraine d’oeuvres and refreshments, and with an alone over 100 students are in need of eye to putting the “fun” in fund-raiser, sponsorship. Branch 98 is reaching out to At an event to raise funds for the UNWLA Scholarship/Children-Student guests tried on an assemblage of necklaces, the community for its help in meeting the Sponsorship Program Scholarships (from left) are: Luba Bilowchtchuk, Irene earrings and bracelets. demands of so many needy students. Steckiw, Maria Polanskyj, M. Orysia Jacus, Nadia Jaworiw, Viki Mischenko, Mimi The UNWLA Scholarship/Children- Readers can help support this program Polanskyj, Irene Krawczuk, Larissa Pencak, Anna Krawczuk and Jaroslawa Mulyk. Student Sponsorship Program is a national by becoming a sponsor of a student, by program whose goal is to provide educa- being a contributor who makes a donation Scholarship Program. Donations must be in 732-441-9530 and leave a message or tional opportunities to students of without assignment of a particular student, the form of a check payable to UNWLA Inc. e-mail [email protected]. All calls or Ukrainian descent in Ukraine, as well as in or by becoming a benefactor who estab- Scholarship Program, P.O. Box 24, emails will be answered by member volun- countries in South America and Europe, lishes an endowment or memorial fund. Matawan, NJ 07747-0024. The UNWLA is teers. Readers can also visit www.unwla. and in the United States. After 44 years of They may consider donating through a 501 (c) (3) non-profit tax-exempt entity org and link to “What we do”; select the operation, more than 20,000 scholarships payroll deduction to the United Way or and all donations are tax deductible in the Scholarship Program from the pull-down have been awarded to needy students. through a matching fund program in their USA within the limits of the IRS law. menu; click the Q&A icon for questions and The scholarship office is located at 171 workplaces by indicating the UNWLA For more information readers can call answers. UCC Montreal organizes UAVets mark Memorial Day Shevchenko commemoration in southwestern Florida by Jerry Zinycz rendered “present arms” while standing at attention in the center aisle of the church. VENICE, Fla. – Memorial Day weekend is The church choir and entire congregation a very active time for the Cpl. Roman G. sang “God Bless America.” Lazor Ukrainian American Veterans Post On Memorial Day, May 28, American 40 in southwestern Florida. It is a time to Legion Post 254 in North Port, hosted an remember fallen heroes who served in the observance, at Veterans Memorial Park. An U.S. armed forces during the time of war estimated 500 people attended this year. and peace and sacrificed their lives so that The Ukrainian American community and we may live free. Since the 2011 Memorial members of Post 40, under command of Day, Post 40 lost two of its members: Zenon vice-commander Roman Rondiak, were Stromeckyj, (U.S. Marine Corps) and well represented. Atanas Kobryn, past George Dychdala, (U.S. Army), who both national commander, and Gene Tomashosky, served during the Korean War. past post commander, posted the UAV On Friday, May 25, Post 40 Honor Guard wreath at the Veterans Monument. led by Col. Roman Rondiak (U.S. Army, ret.) Thirteen veterans’ groups, police, fire- post vice commander and many other vet- fighters, the Knights of Columbus, and the erans’ organizations attended memorial Coast Guard Auxiliary participated with local At the Taras Shevchenko concert in Montreal (from left) are: Mykola Yakovyna, vice- services at Venice Memorial Garden to political dignitaries in honoring veterans. president of the Olzych Foundation of Ukraine; Zorianna Hrycenko-Luhova, presi- honor those interned there, including six This year the Patriot Guard Riders were dent of the UCC Montreal; Bohdanna Klecor-Hawryluk, chairperson, UCC Cultural Ukrainian American Veterans. also in attendance. This is a Motorcycle Educational Committee; Ivan Hutych, choir director; Wolodymyr Mota, bandurist; On Sunday, May 27, post members attend- Veterans Group who accompanies veter- and Stefan Balatsko, guest speaker. ed a “panakhyda” conducted by the Rev. Dr. ans, who have no family or friends to their Severyn Kovalyshin at St. Mary Ukrainian final resting place, in Sarasota National MONTREAL – The Ukrainian Canadian vice-president of Olzych Foundation of Catholic Church in North Port, Florida. At the Cemetery. They provide the last well- Congress (UCC), Montreal branch, held its Ukraine. conclusion of the memorial service, veterans deserved send-off. annual Shevchenko concert, which was Opening and concluding remarks were attended by nearly 100 people, on Sunday, given by UCC Cultural-Education March 11 at the Ukrainian Youth Center. Chairperson Bohdanna Klecor-Hawryluk. The main talk was presented by guest She also announced the passing on March speaker Stefan Balatsko, history teacher 10 of Mykola Plawiuk leader of the and assistant director of Montreal’s Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists and Metropolitan Sheptytsky Ukrainian School, former president of the Ukrainian National who gave an overview of Shevchenko’s Republic in Exile, which existed until the impact on the formation of Ukraine’s iden- fall of the USSR. This was followed by a tity and the struggle for independence. minute of silence in his memory. He also tied Shevchenko’s aspirations The Shevchenko concert’s musical com- then with the current political crises in ponent was organized by Ivan Hutych, Ukraine today. He emphasized the urgency director of the Vidlunia Choir, and Vera to unite the opposition and overthrow “the Turko-Kulycka, the Ukrainian school chil- Tabachnyks” in the current government to dren’s choir director. stop their ongoing effort to introduce a Another major events recently orga- new-wave of Russification policies, undo- nized by UCC Montreal was the annual ing the achievements of the last 20 years of “Sviato Sobornosty” marking the 93rd Ukraine’s renewed independence and anniversary of the unification of Ukrainian threatening its fledgling democracy. lands, that of the Western Ukrainian UAV Post 40 members: (kneeling, from left) Orest Lazor, Gene Tomashosky, (stand- Also present and briefly addressing the National Republic and the Ukrainian ing) Julian Helbig, Cliff Heiser, John Czerkas, Demetrius Yadzyn, Askold Mosijczuk, public was Mykola Yakovyna, former National Republic in Kyiv. The commemo- Jerry Zinycz, Urko Baranowskyj, John Homick, Anatol Popovich, Roman Rondiak member of the Ukrainian Parliament and ration was held on February 19. and Atanas Kobryn. No. 25 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 19

June 19 Mets vs Orioles, Ukrainian Heritage Night at Citi Field, June 30 50th anniversary parish festival, St. John the Baptist New York Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, 212-228-6840 Jewett, NY Ukrainian Catholic Church, or [email protected] www.ukrainianmountaintop.org or 201-358-1846 June 23 Dance, featuring music by Holosni Susidy, Ukrainian June 30 – July 1 Tennis tournament, Ukrainian Sports Federation of the Ellenville, NY American Youth Association, Oselia resort, 845-647-7230 Kerhonkson, NY U.S.A. and Canada (East), Soyuzivka Heritage Center, or www.cym.org/us/ellenville 215-576-7989 June 23 Discussion and film screening, led by Chuck Dobra, July 5 “A Midsummer Night of Kupalo,” Qualico Family Center, Palatine, IL “Agenda – Grinding America Down,” Ukrainian American Winnipeg Assiniboine Park, 204-942-0218 or [email protected] Military Association, Palatine Library, 847-910-3532 July 6-8 Pysanka Festival Ukrainian Dance and Music Competition, June 23 Golf tournament, Ss. Cyril and Methodius Ukrainian Vegreville, AB www.pysankafestival.com or 780-975-8277 Welland, ON Catholic Church, Sparrow Lakes Golf Club, July 6-8 Volleyball tournament, pub night and dance, Ukrainian Ukrainian Black Sea Hall (dinner), www.sparrowlakes.com Ellenville, NY American Youth Associat.ion, Oselia resort, 845-647-7230 or 905-378-2917 or www.cym.org/us/ellenville June 23 Lecture by Maria Rubchak, “Mapping Difference: July 7 Concert with violinist Nazar Pylatiuk, Grazhda Music and Chicago The Many Faces of Women in Contemporary Ukraine,” Jewett, NY Art Center, www.grazhdamusicandart.org Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art, 773-227-5522 or www.uima-chicago.org July 7 Golf tournament, Ukrainian Golf Association of Canada, Pickering, ON Angus Glen Golf Club – North Course, 905-887-0090 or June 24 Book presentation by Myron Kuropas, “Encyclopedia of www.angusglen.com Chicago Ukrainian Diaspora – The Second Book of the American Volume,” Illinois branch of the Shevchenko Scientific July 7-22 World Festival of Ukrainian credit unions, Society, Ukrainian Cultural Center, 773-489-1339 or Stryi, Ukraine www.wfucu.org.ua [email protected] July 13-15 Ukrainian Cultural Festival, Soyuzivka, June 25 Golf tournament, St. Vladimir Ukrainian Orthodox Kerhonkson, NY www.soyuzivka.com Hamilton, ON Cathedral, Chedoke Martin Golf Course, 905-547-2414 or 905-639-4425 July 13-15 Western pub night and dance weekend, Ukrainian Ellenville, NY American Youth Association, Oselia resort, 845-647-7230 June 25 Free concert, Ukrainian American Night, Lakeside Theater or www.cym.org/us/ellenville East Meadow, NY at Eisenhower Park, [email protected] July 14-15 Ukrainian Festival, Sacred Heart Ukrainian Catholic June 26 Golf tournament, Buduchnist Credit Union, Dragon’s Fire Castle Creek, NY Church, 607-797-6293 or [email protected] Carlisle, ON Golf Club, [email protected] or www.dragonsfiregolfclub.com Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events June 29-July 1 “Nadiya Ye!” Festival, featuring Mandry, Ukrainian advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions Ellenville, NY American Youth Association, Oselia resort, 845-647-7230 from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors or www.cym.org/us/ellenville and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected]. 20 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, JUNE 17, 2012 No. 25

The Ukrainian Weekly announces a special section PREVIEW OF EVENTS

Saturday, June 23 Join us for Ukrainian folk arts and traditions, Congratulations, Graduates! crafts, dancing, entertainment, refresh- PALATINE, Ill.: The Ukrainian American ments, food, kids’ activities and much more! Military Association, Conservative Veterans Every year tens of thousands of students throughout North America Volleyball tournament gets under way at 9 of America and ACT for America invite the a.m., and the official opening ceremony receive undergraduate and graduate degrees at colleges and univer- members of the community, veterans and begins at 11 a.m. St. John’s is located on patriots to a viewing of a documentary sities, cresting a pinnacle of personal achievement. Ukraine Road, off Route 23A in Jewett, N.Y. “Agenda – Grinding America Down.” Admission is free. For more information Organizers say, if you think that “commu- visit http://ukrainianmountaintop.org or The Ukrainian Weekly’s special section – Congratulations, nism is dead,” you will learn that the ideas call Joanne Iwaskiw, 201-358-1846. Graduates! – offers readers of The Ukrainian Weekly the opportuni- behind this ideology are alive and well. The ty to place a note congratulating family members and dear friends documentary demonstrates how these radi- Sunday, September 2 cal groups have successfully targeted JEWETT, N.Y.: St. John the Baptist Ukrainian on their recent achievements. This annual section will be published America’s morality and freedom in their Catholic Church concludes its 50th jubilee effort to grind America down. The meeting on July 1, 2012. season with a pontifical divine liturgy, ban- takes place at the Palatine Library, located at quet and anniversary program. Please join To place an ad congratulating a recent graduate, 700 N. North Court, Palatine, IL 60067, at us as we commemorate and celebrate a half- please send us the following by June 25: 2-4 p.m. There is no charge for this event. century of worship and cultural heritage in Cmdr. Chuck Dobra (U.S. Navy, ret.) will lead this unique Ukrainian enclave of the your note of congratulations, in Ukrainian or English, the discussion. For more information call Catskills. Liturgy begins at 10 a.m. with ban- which should be no more than 50 words, including names; 847-910-3532. quet and anniversary program to follow. St. in English, the full name of the graduate, the degree completed John’s is located on Ukraine Road, off Route Saturday, June 30 • or diploma received, along with the date it was presented, 23A in Jewett, N.Y. Tickets may be pur- a list of awards and honors given to the graduate, JEWETT, N.Y.: St. John the Baptist Ukrainian chased prior to the event. For more informa- • and the name and location of the school; Catholic Church kicks off its 50th jubilee tion visit http://ukrainianmountaintop.org season with a fun community festival for all. or call Michelle Hewryk, 917-885-2241. a photo of the graduate (optional); payment for the ad; your daytime phone number. PREVIEW OF EVENTS GUIDELINES • Preview of Events is a listing of community events open to the public. It is a service provided at minimal cost ($20 per listing) by The Ukrainian Weekly to the Ukrainian • The ad sizes for the greeting are • community. a 1/8 page horizontal for $100 or a 1/4 page ad for $180. To have an event listed in Preview of Events please send information, in English, written in Preview format, i.e., in a brief paragraph that includes the date, place, type of event, Please make checks payable to The Ukrainian Weekly and mail along with sponsor, admission, full names of persons and/or organizations involved, and a phone above information to: number to be published for readers who may require additional information. Items should be no more than 100 words long; longer submissions are subject to editing. The Ukrainian Weekly – Congratulations, Graduates! Items not written in Preview format or submitted without all required information will 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280 not be published. Parsippany, NJ 07054 Preview items must be received no later than one week before the desired date of Attn. Walter Honcharyk publication. No information will be taken over the phone. or e-mail: [email protected] Information should be sent to: [email protected] or Preview of Events, The For further information, please call Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054; fax, 973-644-9510. NB: If e-mailing, please do not send items as attachments; simply type the text into 973-292-9800 ext. 3040. the body of the e-mail message.