CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Edition HISTORY OF CUPP Ukraine Parliamentary Program for undergraduate university students from On July 16"'. 1990 the Ukrainian Ukraine. Parliament adopted the Declaration of Sovereignt>', which declared that Parliament The Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary recognized the need to build the Ukrainian Program gives Ukrainian students an state based on the Rule Law. On August opportunity to work and study in the 24'", 1991 the Ukrainian Parliament adopted Canadian Parliament, and gain experience the Declaration of Independence endorsed in from which generations of Canadian, the referendum of December U, 1991. American and West European students have benefited. On the basis of academic Also in 1991. Canadians celebrated excellence, knowledge of the English or the Centennial of Ukrainian group French and Ukrainian languages, and an immigration to Canada. To mark the interest in the parliamentary system of Centennial, organizations planned programs government, undergraduate university- and projects to celebrate this milestone in students from Ukraine can apply for a CUPP Canada's history. scholarship. It is hoped that CUPP will contribute to the education of future leaders The Chair of Ukrainian Studies of Ukraine. Foundation of Toronto decided to mark the Centennial by establishing the Canada- •m^TlSBJ

C UPP 2001 Group with Program Director Ihor W. Bardyn (far right) and Father Roman Galadza (center) in Toronto. Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program 1 CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring 1-diHioii

CUPP Family is Growing "Democracy is the worst system of Sixteen undergraduate university government except for students and four Ukrainian coordinators the others" (last year's CUPP alumni) came to Canada this year to work on Parliament Hill as Winston Churchill interns. Each Ukrainian intern worked in the office of an MP who had kindly agreed to "1 wish my father were alive to see host a summer student. the accomplishments of the Ukrainian community in Canada", said Ramon The interns worked with their Hnatyshyn, May 25, 2001, at the annual respective MP's for two months and returned meeting with the CUPP participants. to Ukraine afterwards to promote democratic refonns in their own country. It is believed While looking through the window that the experience that they gained during of "Cowlings Lafleur Henderson", Ramon their stay in Canada will become valuable Hnatyshyn reminisces about his past. The and useful in their pursuit of political or architecture of Rideau Hall brings him back other careers. to the most compelling time of serving as Governor General for 5 years. Parliament Tliis is the ll"' year of Canada- Hill reminds him of the active political life Ukraine Parliamentary Program and the during his 14 years in the House of family of CUPPers is constantly growing. Commons. He stands up and approaches the The group of 2001 consisted of 16 open- opposite window pointing to the West. He minded and goal oriented young people suddenly plunges into the sweet memories of from all over Ukraine. The Chair of his childhood in the prairies of Ukrainian Studies Foundation conducted the Saskatchewan. Then downloading several selection process in a way, so that most of Ukrainian sites, he relishes the beauty of the the regions of Ukraine would be represented. historic Bukovyna area, which gave birth to Many of the interns came from Western his father in 1907. Ukraine, especially from L'viv. The rest were from Kyiv, Luhans'k, Odesa, Crimea, A two-month old Ivan (John) was Dnipropetrov'sk, Donetsk and Poltava. brought by his mother to Canada, where they joined their father Michael who left Prior to their arrival in Ottawa, beforehand to land one of those homesteads CUPP 2001 group had an orientation session on the vast territories of Canada. His in Toronto where they met with the grandparents moved to Canada along with Ukrainian community in Canada. The group the first wave of immigration from Eastern stayed at St. Vladimir institute for a week Europe. Ramon Hnatyshyn recalls his where they were able to get acquainted with father's decision of obtaining education with prominent Canadian Ukrainians. great reverence. He to a large extent attributes his personal career success to his All of the Ukrainian interns are very father, who graduated from Law School and happy to receive this unique opportunity started practicing law in 1932 to eventually which The Chair of Ukrainian Studies become the first Ukrainian-bom and first Foundation had granted them. They are all senator from Saskatoon. Ramon Hnatyshyn convinced that this Program has to continue regrets his father passing away too early to and the family of CUPPers has to grow. see the achievements of his talented Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Ixiilion offspring. reform and current precarious political and economic situation. Can you confirm this? On May 25, 2001 participants of the Does the same feeling prevail in the Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Program had prominent Ukrainian-Canadian circles? an opportunity to meet an extremely fascinating and interesting personality of the Ramon Hnatyshyn: 1 think that there is still Right Honourable Ramon John Hnatyshyn, a great interest after some serious P.C, C.C, C.M.M, CD., Q.C. He was very disappointment. It is tme that many attempts kind to set aside one hour and a half out of of investment in Ukraine have failed. his busy schedule to answer the questions However, there is still an influential group of that followed after an introductory speech. people working on that but not as many as before. Ukraine's emergence as an Vasyl Myroshnychenko: To what extent independent state was a dream that came have you been involved in forming Canada's true. There was a big influx of people who policy towards Ukraine while being the came to visit their relatives in the early 90's. Governor General? They could not see them for so long. 1 guess that now people are more realistic. If people Ramon Hnatyshyn: 1 believe that the fact see a tangible way in Ukraine's improvement that Canada was the first Western country to and building of infrastructure, they'll surely recognize Ukraine was not accidental. And come back. the reason for that is that Canada recognized the contribution of the Ukrainian community Ulyana Khromyak: Could you please name to the Canadian heritage far before Ukraine the outstanding Ukrainian-Canadians on proclaimed its independence. Though the Parliament Hill? position of the Governor General is quite symbolic, 1 had a chance to meet with the Ramon Hnatyshyn: During my term in the Prime Minister formally at least every three House of Commons there were about 20 weeks. As well I had meetings with he Ukrainian MP's. Now I can mention just a deputy External Minister, so 1 should admit few: Walter Lastewka, M.P., and Senator that I was consulted by them in many cases Andreychuk. The list is diminishing. on the issue of Ukraine. Alex Sahadosh: Mr. Hnatyshyn, 1 have OIha Babych: What is the most important more of a geopolitical question. Even after feature for the Ukrainian leader? the collapse of the Iron Curtain there are still some tensions between Russia and the West. Ramon Hnatyshyn: President Kuchma now Since V. Putin came to power, the economy has to make a tough decision who to face; started rolling, and Russia is no longer East or West. A Ukrainian leader has to learn taking any loans from the IMF or World to make decisions in the process of Bank, but instead is paying off its debts. Do institution building, which will provide the you think there might be another polarization confidence for investment. He has to of the world, and what would be the role of understand that the rule of law is essential Ukraine in this case? for making a difference. Ramon Hnatyshyn: As far as 1 know Vasyl Myroshnychenko: The influential Russia is still taking loans from the World magazine "The Economist" has published an Bank. President Putin said he wishes to article earlier this year about the crisis of the make the economy more transparent. In fact, Ukrainian Diaspora provoked by their I had a meeting with him not long ago. disappointment with Ukraine's lack of Russia's economy is moving upward, which Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program 3 CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Ediiion is a good thing and indeed Ukraine "nation-state" concept was substituted with experienced something like a 6% growth the concept of cohabitation of the last year. As 1 already mentioned Ukraine ethnicities. It has proved to be even more will play the key role in this region. Today it viable than the American melting pot is dependent on Russia (energy system, concept The main distinguishing feature of investments). Now the main question for multiculturalism is the fact that it offers Ukraine to answer is 'Does it want to be every citizen a chance to develop his or her really independent, like Poland for heritage and culture instead of 'melting' into example'? a new nation and renouncing who he or she originally was. Canada has become the first By Vasyl Myroschnychenko country to figure out that this concept would conquer the world. In the era of Canada: a Country of Tolerance, globalization, when time and distance are no Cohabitation, and Openness longer real obstacles, where information has become the main product in the market, According to the UN Annual where military force is not omnipotent Reports, Canada is recognized to be 'the anymore, the only thing that really matters is most desired country to live in'. Every year cultural identity. more and more immigrants come to this country from all over the world. Why Let us investigate more of this topic. Canada? Why not the USA, France or We have to go deeper and define what lies Germany. Some of us may base our beneath. How is it possible to have all these explanation to this phenomenon on the etlinic groups living together in the same economic indicators in Canada as well as the cities, and thus contributing to each other's number of social welfare programs fostered well being instead of fighting? in this country, while the others will be convinced that it is all due to the balanced Why is it so difficult to avoid ethnic political system. As a mater of fact, conflicts in the Balkans, Russia, Israel, India countries like the USA, France or Germany and Pakistan? The major reason why these also have very good accomplishments in the ethnic conflicts arise is absence of tolerance areas of economy, political systems and and communication. What a Ukrainian social policy. There is one more factor which student sees in Canada right away is the makes Canada more attractive to the degree of trust, tolerance and communication immigrants than any other country - its between individuals and between groups of cultural policy. Canada's concept of individuals. The most striking thing which multiculturalisni makes it a unique society can be observed here in Canada is the fact with no analogues in the rest of the world. that even people with strong opposing political views respect each other's position The fact that a significant part of and realize that all that they do must result in Canada's population are Francophone forced a benefit for average citizens. Do we see this the government to come up with a system in Ukraine? which would accommodate both founding nations: those who identified themselves I think we cannot speak about with the British origin and those who were democracy in any society unless there is a of French descent. This is how the concept tolerance among the individual citizens as of multiculturalism was first introduced. It well as the groups of people. The concept of was decided that every ethnic group has a multiculturalism would be impossible right to preserve and develop their without tmst and tolerance. Tolerance also indigenous culture. The traditional European enables people to have open discussions Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Ediiion within the society, thus creating a transparent brightness of her brisk energy and versatile political environment: Canada is a unique interests and activities... example of an open society where the politicians are accessible for discussions and The meeting with the Honourable are willing to communicate with their voters. Senator Raynell Andreychuk took place on June 14, 2001 in one of the rooms in the Communication is impossible Central Block of the Parliament of Canada. without tolerance. Why do we have so many It was quite hot outside, but 1 am sure that it ethnic conflicts in the world? The answer is was not only due to the technical appliances pretty simple - because there is a lack of installed in the room that 1 felt so communication and tolerance between ethnic comfortable and enjoyed the meeting so groups. much. The contents of what the Senator spoke about as well as her manner of Canada can be viewed as a role speaking enriched by her vivid experience of model for multicultiu-al and multiethnic legal and political career could not have left countries, including Ukraine. Ukrainians indifferent the Ukrainian students who had have a lot to leam from Canada, starting come from different parts of Ukraine to from the very simple everyday acceptance of know more about Canada, its people and the others. way they live and work. And of course it could not help appealing to my interest, as my major is legal studies. By Oleksandr Sahadosh During the meeting, the Honourable Senator R. Andreychuk told us a little about her family and career. It was interesting to fmd out that coming from a family of "You have limited Ukrainian origin, Ms. Raynell Andreychuk time before the world spoke Ukrainian from her birth and went to forgets about you " school to leam English. The Senator told us that she had always wanted to visit Ukraine, The Honourable and had already been there several times. Of Senator Raynell no less interest was what the Senator told Andreychuk about her work as the Canadian High Commissioner to Kenya and Uganda, the It is difficult to Ambassador of Canada to Somalia and think of a statement Portugal and as the Permanent which one could adopt Representative to several institutions within as one's life philosophy. And, it is difficult the United Nations Organization. Ms. R. to think of a better statement to reflect the Andreychuk also spoke about the way the life and the work of Ms. Raynell Parliament works and the role the Senate Andreychuk - the Honourable Senator, a plays in its work. It was quite interesting to respected lawyer, a committed citizen and a open slightly the cover over the peculiarities beautiful woman. It is these words, which of the work of the Parliament of Canada and teach you the right way to live and work, and the way they are perceived by the Senators. to inspire real deeds at the same time. And it is these words which seem to give an insight The Honourable Senator Raynell into the life philosophy of Ms. Raynell Andreychuk told us some words about the Andreychuk, but apparently appear to be too project she participated in. It was astonishing plain to be able to reveal all the richness and to find out how broad her interests and Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Edition concerns were. In particular, she took an deep concern about the things she did and active part in health, education, women, and continues to do at the moment. No matter to judges projects. what she devotes her time it comes out a success as long as it appeals to her interest. It There were several things, which I seems to totally overwhelm her. opened for myself during that meeting and which came to my mind afterwards when I It was the meeting with the recalled the meeting. The funniest thing Honourable Senator Raynell Andreychuk about these things is the fact that they seem that inspired me even more for the further to be quite simple and lie on the surface, but work in the direction 1 had chosen, and 1 am at the same time it is such meetings, that very grateful to her for that. make you really "feel" them, pass them through your heart and make them your life By Olga Babych principles. The mere thing that it was the life philosophy and the experience of Ms. The Value Of One. The Power of Many ... Raynell Andreychuk that spoke through her words during that meeting made me admire In the very first year of the new her even greater. millennium, the United Nations has declared 2001 to be the International Year f "Speak out, fight back, risk," - these Volunteers. This year 77 nations around the were the words the Honourable Senator world have participated in a global Raynell Andreychuk told us when asked celebration of volunteers. It recognizes and about advice for our future activities. Life honours the enormous contribution that never gives one anything without a good volunteers have made to the social and reason. It is necessary to work hard if you economic fabric of the society. The year want to achieve something. And it is never 2001 provides a backdrop against which an easy thing to do. You should often fight volunteerism and the voluntary sector will be against yourself and the conditions around acknowledged, facilitated and promoted. you, but if you really want something, risk This year represents people with die unique and apply all your efforts and energy to opportunity to reach a new understanding of pursue the goal, you will achieve it. this important recognition in their lives. During the meeting, we spoke about What is volunteeringWolimteenng is the the future of Ukraine. In fact our country has most fundamental act of citizenship and a lot of problems now. At the same time, as philanthropy in the society. It requires time, it comes from the words of Ms. Raynell energy and skills of one's own free will Andreychuk, it is not the time to talk about without any monetary benefit. It is an the problems in Ukraine, but merely the time extension of being a good neighbour, to work, so that they could be solved. It is transforming a collection of houses into a our task, the task of all Ukrainians, to make community, as people become involved in our country better and provide a better life the improvement of their surroundings and for ourselves. choose to help others. By caring and contributing to change, volunteers decrease It was at the meeting with the suffering and disparity, and at the same time Honourable Senator Raynell Andreychuk they gain skills, self-esteem and change then- that 1 realized how important the interest for lives. People work to improve the lives of one's work is. The life of Ms. Andreychuk their neighbours and, in return, enhance then- and the words she used when speaking about own. Individuals who volunteer come from it were quite expressive in reflecting her all walks of life - from the unemployed to Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Ediiion the professional. All age groups are fiiU-time jobs. represented and they are from different diverse cultures, abilities and backgrounds. Canadians know that the strength of the country depends on helping each other. Canadian volunteering. In typical Canadian Some people call it volunteering and many fashion, they hardly ever talk about it... but it have other words for what they do. Helping is something that many Canadians regularly out. Doing what's right. Giving their time. practice. They are widely involved in their Giving back. Having fun... community, whether through giving or volunteering in structured ways or by This is what they say... " We read and providing support to individuals and coach, walk and drive, visit and cook, run, communities on their own. protest and feed. We write and paint, organize and coordinate, speak chair and There are over 7.5 million give... We are parents, friends, seniors, volunteers in Canada and 175,000 not-for- children, teenagers, and people who work profit organizations. The contribution of for a living and people who don't. We are volunteers is estimated at $16 billion from everywhere. We are Canadian. annually or 8% of Canada's gross domestic product. They contribute 1.1 billion hbiu-s of Through volunteering we connect - their time yearly - the equivalent of 578,000 to each other, to what matters within us, to our vision of what we want this country to

Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program 7 CUPPers meet the Ukrainian community in Toronto at Wine & Cheese reception, following the lecture by Dr. Grabovych

Niagara Falls — favourite place in Canada: of CUPP 2001 group

They say that fust time is always special. First day in Parliament was more than special for us

8

CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Ediiion be. We find friends and experience and We were told that we would have a BBQ sarisfaction and fulfillment and each other. after we had finished our work. It promised to be very delicious and in a few hours the Volunteering gives our lives girls cleaned up the cottages ( dancing with meaning - often more meaning than what we the broom to the rhythms of Ukrainian do to put bread on the table. When we put songs) and the boys picked up the branches our hearts and minds to it we find there is and helped with the digging near the houses. nothing we can't do. WE CAN CHANGE This day was special for all of us because in THE WORLD..." the afternoon we went canoeing. Although our coordinator worried about us drowning, Unfortunately, this involvement is everybody survived and safely came back. unknown to Ukraine. Despite its low visibility it is one of the ways in which we At Oselia we were lucky to meet can enrich our society and is a key ingredient very interesting people. Among them there in national character. was Father Mykytyuk who took care of us the next Sunday. Natalie, Alex, Vasyl and 1 CUPP's 2001 experience in volunteering. went to Church. After a nice mass the CUPP 2001 participants decided not to stay League of Ukrainian Women celebrated its aside from this movement and joined anniversary. While speaking with them we volunteering in Canada. Actually, it was part found out that they are also involved in the of our Program and everybody seemed to be volunteer movement. Their contribution in very happy and excited. support of the women in Ukraine is impressive. This afternoon we were grateful The fust lecture was given by Alex to them for inviting us to dinner as we also Hordienko who described in general terms had a chance to volunteer in the kitchen. We 'What is volunteering?' and 'Why is it so were surprised how skillful our boys were in important?' Some of us in St. Vladimir's serving the dishes. By the way, waiters Institute had already decided what kind of among us - not bad... volunteering we would like to do. YES! We enjoyed As soon as our group arrived in VOLUNTEERING. Most of us realized it Ottawa, we looked forward to begin during the Children's Festival We spent the volunteering. At last there came Sunday whole weekend in the Museum of Science afternoon. May 27th, and with our and Technology, working in the tents with coordinator we went to Gatineau Park. the artists, playing with children and just Canying white bags and walking along the having fun. Especially, we enjoyed being highways we picked up garbage. It seemed painted - everyone looked so mysterious... that other volunteers were quicker than us and so at the end we got two full bags. Good I think that it is only the beginning start!!! Despite the hot weather we enjoyed of our volunteer work experience in Canada ourselves and finished the day playing as it was a great lesson for everybody. We volleyball and having fim! have met different people who spent their lives volunteering and feeling satisfied and Another weekend of volunteering helpful. For example, Mr. Bill Mates - the approached. Oselia, is the Ukrainian camp Regional Field Officer of the Duke of which is situated about 50 kilometres away Edinburgh's Association in Canada spoke to from Ottawa near the picturesque Gatineau us about how volunteering can change a hills. A beautiful lake and fresh air reminded person's life and how it canged his own life. me of the Ukrainian Carpathian mountains. Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program 10 CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Ediiion Sharing this world we are part of it everything possible so that Michelle could and you never know who might be the next win. But it happened that she was defeated person you are going to help... by the Liberal candidate and I took her defeat as if it were my personal failure, for A Matter of Betrayal, or Two Sides - One we worked with our heart and soul, standing Goal for the people of Cape Breton, for social Like in any domain of our society programs for them, for accessible health life, there exist several prejudices about care, education, environment and things politics and politicians and here are some of alike. them which 1 believe are part and parcel of As we arrived in Ottawa, I went to people's mind-set. As far as I understand, Wellington Building to see the office I people tend to think that politicians of worked in last time, but there was another different affiliation treat each other as if they name on the door, and other people were were enemies who cannot stand each other. sitting at the desks and it made me really Another prejudice is that those who get sad. Imagine what I felt being aware that I'll "there" (into politics) must have either good have to work with somebody else, obviously connections or are of a privileged a Liberal, for it's a rare chance that we get to background. I assume nobody would deny the opposition. Ill tell you, my feeling was the fact that very often politics becomes a that I would have to work for the "enemy" bone of contention in relationships between and that fact made me feel uncomfortable. people, for it brings confusion when you Another feeling was that if I do that, I'll know a person as an individual and at the betray NDP, I'd betray Michelle and ideas same time as a man of politics. she stands for. You might think I'm too I have always wondered how sensitive. Nothing of the kind; in my view it different it is to work in different parties, has nothing to do with politics, it is first and how different it is to be in "alien camps", foremost about respect and friendship, and how different parties' members are. I though I admit that lots of issues on the was lucky to have a chance to have NDP's agenda are burning crucial issues in experienced all those things to the full in Ukraine and 1 was eager to see how Canadian Parliament, for I worked both for Canadians solve them. the government and tlie opposition. I worked Shame on me but I must admit that for different MPs and I saw the way they going to my new office for the first time I work and the goals they aspire to. was a bit prejudiced and 1 kept thinking what the people I was going to meet would say To tell you the truth, this time I was when they found out 1 worked for the coming to Canada with a feeling of opposition and whether they, in their tum, uneasiness that had burdened me for half a would be prejudiced against me and 1 was year back in Ukraine. The reason for that also wondering who was going to be my was that Michelle Dockrill, NDP MP whom MP. But as the proverb goes, the devil is not I was working with last time, lost her seat as black as it's painted. The "enemy", as 1 put during the federal election campaign, which it earlier (and 1 regret having thought in that meant I couldn't go back to her office, the way!), appeared to be ... a cheerful office which was a team or better to say a gentleman greeting me in Ukrainian. Easy• family, for we used to work and live together going, optimistic, always on the go, and at here in Ottawa and .later on in Cape Breton the same time hard-working, strong-willed Island during the election campaign, sharing and determined. He took me to the House, to our concerns, problems and joys and doing the conferences, committee meetings and he Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Edition would always ask me whether I saw this or something for them, and so they did. They that, being more of a guide than of my boss, just rose and went ahead. But! One became a being in jest when there was nothing Liberal, for considered it to be the best concerning work, but committed when it choice for his riding; the other went to the caine to his responsibilities as an MP and NDP, for considered the government policy steadfast when it came to his constituents. 1 inefficient in Atlantic Canada and the NDP didn't even need time to get accustomed to platform to reflect the needs of the the new environment; Janko Peric is constituents. And so they got into different Croatian and the same is with Betty and parties. But how much difference did it bring Stan, so we are all Slavs and have much in out between them? common in terms of mentality. As 1 was gradually learning more and more about Let's consider their approach to their Janko, about the way he works with the job and their attitude towards their constituents, about his activity as an MP, 1 constituents. They both believe that "being felt (1 may be mistaken, for you can never an MP is about helping people in your say what other people think for sure), as if I community and not being afraid to stand up were accepted to the Team. for them, to fight for their rights. Those who don't, do not deserve the right to be in the Imagine my surprise when I found House". Amazing? You might think it's easy that both Michelle and Janko seem to have to speak like this when in opposition. Well, 1 gone the same way from the start and had to can also tell you that everyone in the House face and put up with almost the same admits that Janko, being a member of the obstacles. Amazing? Well, let's take a look at government, at the same time was never shy them. To begin with, both have never been to take a stand and oppose the Prime career politicians, but rather average, hard Minister or to vote against legislation that working tax-payers. Both unknown, they had wasn't in the best interests of his community. to make their future constituents believe in For instance, he opposed Liberal policy on their ability to stand up for them away in abortions or being an immigrant himself he Ottawa. I would have never earlier believed initiated calling for expulsion of landed that a welder technician or a health care immigrants convicted of major crimes worker could work their way up to the accepted by the Immigration Minister. Parliament of the country. But as it appears, it is possible. And there's even more: one Both Janko and Michelle have was an immigrant running for the Liberals in committed themselves to represent their a riding never considered to be Liberal constituents effectively - with integrity, territory, the other had to fight with an accessibility and responsibility. Both have incumbent candidate, who had worked on fashioned a reputation as hard workers with the Hill for 17 years and was a Cabinet a mind towards their constituents. Both Mitiister. believe that providing a safe community is one of the most important roles of You may ask what was the reason government. And they both fight for what they went into politics. Well, both have been they believe in - their constituents. very family-oriented and were taught to help people, both have a strong sense of Well, so different a person, so community, both used to hear lots of different a party, so much in common. complaints from people around them and Possible? It appears, yes. Then, what is it all one day they just had enough. Both Janko about? Probably the idea is that being an MP and Michelle are the kind of people who is not about the party you are in, but it's won't wait until somebody comes and does about being an individual, or better to say, a Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Edition personality. It's not about party affiliation the early twentieth century and to pioneer and following the party policy, but it's about social activists. Today NDP is a member of serving people in your community. And it's a the Socialistic International worldwide also about that everyone can do the same, I association of democratic socialist and mean, work his way up to the top once he's labour parties founded in 1951. In the made up his mind to achieve the sacred goal, present Government, NDP has 13 Members i.e. to serve for the benefit and prosperity of of Parliament representing different the community. provinces. The NDP platform concentrates on such issues as putting money back into By Olga Kravchenko services for the people, cleaning up the environment, cutting tuition and student Tlie Poihicttl Party I Worked For debt, supporting childcare, building affordable housing and helping farm Coming to Canada CUPP families. The primary purpose of the NDP is participants do not choose a party they are to offer a vision for Canada where people going to work for according to their political come first, a clear democratic socialist affiliation but they get placement in those political alternative. They seek to govern, to Parliamentary offices where there is an be a strong force electorally, so that they can intern vacancy. Being a student of foreign implement the agenda of economic, political languages, not very active politically, I found and social change. They recognize that their it was a very outstanding experience to be electoral success, whether as an opposition placed into NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY party in Parliament, as the balance of power, office, an opposition party in the Canadian or as government, provides them with the Parliament. There were only two CUPP opportunity for significant and lasting 2001 participants working for NDP: Alia change. Those significant and lasting Lukashenko (Alexa McDonough, Halifax, changes came earlier than anyone expected. Leader of the NDP) and me Lina Klymenko Doing a media morning for my Member of (Libby Davies, Vancouver Last). Parliament one day, I came across an article about a new party built outside NDP. "What The first day I met Alia shining with is up?", I was wondering. I was sitting there excitement about her future work with the in the centre of NDP and did not know what New Democrats we swore to each other to was going on outside the Parliament building support our party's program and to work and there was no trouble in NDP itself as I hard against those massive Liberal Party's could see from moming briefings. Caucus CUPP 2001 participants whose members of meetings, press conferences and media Parliament occupied the most seats in the releases. Moreover, the party was working House of Commons. hard bringing up questions in the House of Commons and trying to find a right solution. Being happy to experience political There were troubles outside the party. A struggle and leam the Canadian democracy group called the New Politics Initiative had fu-st hand Alia and I started to study our posted a Web site and grabbed plenty of party's history and platform and found out attention with a bold plan to build a new that the New Democratic Party of Canada party out of NDP. was founded in 1961 at a convention in Ottawa, which brought together the Co• "The new party sees NDP as no operative Commonwealth Federation and longer an inspiring or consistent force for affiliated unions of the Canadian Labour social change. The idea is a new party that Congress. However, the origins of the Party can build a bridge between what the left does go back to the social reform movement of in election and what the left does between Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program 13 CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring b^Jilion elections" (Canadian Press, Ottawa June 8). is because people think that if they don't put It was still not clear if it was a media game forward the idea of their supremacy over or Liberal's provocation. Was it just a small others, the national interests would suffer. argument inside NDP or a real danger for NDP existence fiom outside? Was it Alla's It appears, though, that when you and my fault because we were naive give more respect to others it does not at all exchanging our experience and ideas with mean that you disregard yourself, or that you Liberal CUPP 2001 participants not neglect your own interests. On the contrary, expecting them to cause trouble for our by appreciating others and sometimes even party? The last one is unreal. The Canadian giving them a certain degree of priority, you democracy is based on the coalition of all show your level of maturity and parties in the Canadian Parliament working consciousness, thus displaying the moral on common issues. advantage of your own. The Parliament is not in session History reveals a number of such now, it's on simimer holiday. I hope that the examples for instance, Canadian-Dutch NDP will start the new session in its old relations during the Second World War makeup with its progressive ideas and exhibited through civility and mutual regard. programs and CUPP 2002 participants who During the war the Queen of the Netherlands come to Ottawa next spring will enjoy immigrated to Canada and was about to give working for the NDP PARTY 1 WORKED birth to a child. But according to the Dutch FOR. laws, a child could not be an heir to the throne if he or she was not bom in Dutch By Lina Klymenko territory. As the situation was of extraordinary character, the Canadian Learning to Respect Yourseif government decided to wave the Dutch flag over the Canadian Parliament and also to 'When we seek to discover the best in bring some Dutch soil to the hospital where others, we somehow bring out the best in the delivery was to take place. The reason ourselves' for that was respect and recognition of another nation. (By the way the result of this celebration was the annual tulip festival that takes place every year in Ottawa, when Our attachment towards a country is millions of tulips blossom in May). It is based on some objective factors, among possible to say that by doing that Canadians which are the fact that one is bom on a neglected themselves? The answer is "no". certain territory and is brought up in a certain By displaying such degree of respect to cultural and social environment. This is not a another nation, Canadians celebrated matter of economic and political issues. This themselves, for they know that they, is the matter of a natural bond existing Canadians and nobody else, can achieve this between an individual and a country, which level of recognition of others which makes cannot be eliminated no matter how much them different from the rest. Is it not a we resist or deny it. nation-consolidating factor? Very often people tend to manifest Another level of building a strong love for their own country at the same time nation which makes Canadians Canadian is neglecting the social value of others. In some the openness of the state to the public, i.e. cases they would even assert themselves as a there are no access barriers to the nation through domination and superiority. It government on the part of the Canadian Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Edition people. That's why Canadian Parliament and are not worse than you, and you are not other governmental buildings are open to the better than them. You are all different. Our public. The point is that the government is background is tremendous, and everything convinced that it's not only politicians and we leam from others and everything that public servants who can have access to comes from others is not to humiliate us, but Canadian history and heritage. This is to enrich us. common in Canadian history, and that is why all Canadians have the right to access it and make their own judgment. By Yevhen Shevchenko and Olga Another point is the openness and Kravchenko. the degree of commitment of Canadian poliricians towards their constituents, namely protection and promotion of interests and concerns of the people they represent. For CUPP: A valuable learning experience ' when people elect someone to represent them in Ottawa, they want a person that will Reflections from the Canadian stand up for them, in order to foster positive Coordinator changes in their riding as well as on the level of state and thus, to maintain Canada's position in the world as one of the best countries to live in. Notably, one can witness the degree of love and respect of common Canadians towards their country and the way they cherish it during their most celebrated holiday - Canada Day, the birthday of the nation that Canadians created themselves. "Happy birthday, Canada!" - the way the citizens display their care, devotion and love towards their home is striking. And they don't wait for somebody to shape the home they want to live in, they shape it in the way they choose themselves. It creates a certain bond between the country and its every citizen which enables everyone to feel the nation's recognition and involvement into As I write this article, the 2001 social life. Without this bond there's no Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Program is happiness of the individual and welfare of close to finishing and it's difficult to believe the nation. that we have only a few days left in Ottawa and a day in Toronto before the CUPP Building a democratic society, one participants and the Ukrainian coordinators has to be aware that being a citizen of a fly home. This last week has been full of country means putting your efforts into activity and the upcoming weekend, contributing to the benefit and prosperity of featuring Canada Day, promises to be very the state. It means to leam to respect those eventful, enlightening, and fun. The eight who are next to you and who are different weeks of the program seem to have passed from you. One should bear in mind that they Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program 15 CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Edition like lightning. visited Montreal, and volunteered to do spring cleaning at St. John's Ukrainian Camp Considering the major themes and in the Gatineau hills. We have met with so issues that have come to define this many interesting and instmctive people, such particular program, adjustment is as the Right Honourable Ramon Hnatyshyn immediately what comes to my mind. The and Senator Raynell Andreychuk, and we beginning of May saw 16 participants and 3 have toured several unique sites and coordinators arrive in Canada to become facilities, from the Ukrainian Canadian Care acquainted with the Canadian parliamentary Centre in Toronto to the National Gallery of system and, more broadly, with the Canada. We've also simply had fun together. Canadian way of life. As CUPP 2001 was We celebrated birthdays, goings-away, made up of a very diverse group, each visits, and just took time to leam a little participant came with different expectations more about each other. We have had to and different objectives to pursue which overcome significant differences - in made adjustment to life in Canada that much understanding, behaviour, and background - more complex. I, too, came with my own set but I would say that ultimately we have been of preconceptions. Although I am of comparatively successful in bridging those Ukrainian heritage and have met several gaps. visitors from Ukraine, I have not yet visited my family's homeland and did not know 1 sincerely hope that each of the entirely what to expect. CUPP 2001 participants will retum home having had an enjoyable experience and will This was my first time as a CUPP warmly remember her or his stay in Canada. Canadian Coordinator. At the beginning, the However, looking a little deeper, I would prospect of facing Ukrainian students and really encourage everyone who has helping them orient themselves in Canada participated in CUPP 2001 to take the time and leam about our society seemed like an to reflect upon how their experiences in exciting, and sometimes daunting, challenge. Canada, both good and bad, have helped to At the end, however, 1 see that this "sink or shape them, or if they have at all, and how swim" approach to leaming was one of the they, as individuals, contributed to the major advantages of CUPP - both for me overall CUPP experience and how they can and for the participants. Being thrown into contribute to Ukraine's development of a an entirely new situation developed our civil society and tme democracy. CUPP, like maturity when dealing with challenges and countless initiatives around the world, built our self-confidence when we through its focus on both life skills and experienced successes. As students, we are professional development helps instill constantly leaming, just as Ukraine, and initiative and maturity in young people and truly all nations, is still leaming how best to give them an opportunity to leam from every deal with its own issues. aspect of life. While we came to Ottawa to experience life in Parliament, we will Altogether, I am so thankful to have certainly come away having had a much had this opportunity to be the Canadian richer experience. Coordinator for CUPP 2001. As a result of my involvement with the program, 1 have Finally, 1 would just like to reiterate met 20 outstanding Ukrainian students and my thanks to everyone involved with CUPP, had the privilege to live and work with them. especially to all of the participants. We have As a group, we have had a seemingly endless overcome challenges and had opportunities string of adventures. We have attended that we couldn't anticipate when we met for Prime Minister Jean Chretien's Garden Party, the first time in Toronto. Now, as you are Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program 16 CUPP Newsletter 2001 Spring Ediiion preparing for your retum to Ukraine, 1 wish all of you well. May we retum to our homes having leamed some, and enjoyed some, and altogether experienced something valuable because of our involvement with CUPP. 1 know I certainly have. And in the same way that we have dealt with challenges and adjusted to a new environment, may we then take our experience and apply it to all of Ukraine, which, like us, is young and striving to come to terms with its place in the world.

By Natalie Haras

CUPP 2001

Canada - Ukraine Parliamentary Program 17 CUPP Participants wish to express their deep gratitude for the ilfetime opportunity of coming to Canada and acquiring invaiuabie experience and knowledge to ail the people who contributed their efforts and time to make our stay in Canada unforgettable, wonderful and exciting Mr. Ihor Bardyn - CUPP Director Mr. And Mrs. Hordienko Natalka Wallace Bill Kereliuk The Members of Parliament who kindly hosted CUPP participants: Mrs. Eleni Bakopanos, Ms. Sarmite Bulte, The Hon. Joe Clark, Ms. Libby Daview, Mr. Arnold Wayne Easter, Mr. Mac Harb, Mr. Walt Lastewka, Ms. M. Sophia Leung, Ryan Mansour (Liberal Research Bureau), Mr. Inky Mark, The Hon. Maria Minna, Ms. Alexa McDonough, Mr. Dan McTeague, Dr. Rey D. Pagtakhan, Mr. Janko Peric, Mr. Benoit Serre, Mr. Alexander James Shepherd, Mr. Andrew Telegdi, all Executive Assistants and Other office staff. CUPP'Ol Coordinators Canadian Coordinator: Natalie Haras Ukrainian Coordinators: Yevhen Shevchenko, Vasyl Harasymiv, Olga Kravchenko and Alia Lukashenko Other Wonderful People St. Vlad's staff - for authentic Ukrainian cuisine Adrian and Stepan Pruchnicky - for hanging out with us Andrew Teliczewsky (Sheila Copps' office) - for a wonderful BBQ and hilarious laughter Slavko Hrehirchak and Zhenia Truhin - Montreal would have been boring without them Yuriy Truhin (Zhenia's father) - for saving Vasyl's life Bohdan Matsura - for uniting Ukrainians abroad Dmytro Gorodnichiy - we will never forget hot Latin-American dancing club "Caliente" Jan Gudz - for giving a ride Father Mykytyuk - for picking up for the mass Halyna Michaelchuk, Lidya Choulgine, Marta Wynnyckyj - for Ukrainian hospittflity and Parliamentary guards - for a tolerant attitude to those who forgot their passes Bus drivers - for letting us use a transfer for a "couple of times" Ciena's Sohaka - for becoming the CUPP symbol Bands "Destiny's child" for a song "Survivor", 'Okean Elzy' for its 'Vstavay' and Weezer for "Hash pipe" - all of which became CUPP anthems. GAP stores - it is cool to bring something of this brand hack home Room 703 - for hosting so many parties 2001 Spring Edition Editorial Board: Editor-in-chief - Alex Sabadosh Language Editor - Olga Kravchenko, Wasyl Myroshnychenko, Ulyana Khromyak Layout and Design - Alex Sabadosh and Hanna Makedonska Contents - Hanna Makedonaska

The Canada-Ukiaine Pailiamentaiy Program for university students is sponsored by the Chair of Ukrainian Studies Foundation Le Programme parlementaire Canada-Ukraine est finance par la Chaire de la Fondation d'etudes ukrainiennes 620 Spadina Avenue Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 2H4 Telephone (416) 234-9111 Fax (416) 234-9114 www.katedra.org The Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary Program Sponsored by the Chair of Ukrainian Studies Foundation 620 Spadina Avenue Toronto, Ontario M5S 2H4 Telephone (416) 234-9111 Fax (416) 234-9114

www.katedra.org