Movers and Shakers Comment on Ukraine at 20 by Mark Raczkiewycz Some Submissions Metaphorically Com- Entered College, Had Become the Boxing Dated Soviet Model

INSIDE:  Yushchenko testiﬁ es against Tymoshenko – page 3  Diaspora leaders comment on today’s Ukraine – page 4  Experts/scholars on independent Ukraine at 20 – page 8

ThePublished U by thekrainian Ukrainian National Association Inc., a fraternal W non-profit associationeekly Vol. LXXIX No. 34 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 $1/$2 in Ukraine

Chrystyna Lapychak/The Ukrainian Weekly August 24, 1991: The scene inside the Verkhovna Rada after the vote for Ukraine’s independence. Members of the democratic bloc carry in a huge Ukrainian flag, which had been draped over one of the tanks protecting the Russian Parliament building at the time of the attempted coup in the Soviet Union. Movers and shakers comment on Ukraine at 20 by Mark Raczkiewycz Some submissions metaphorically com- entered college, had become the boxing dated Soviet model. This is one of the rea- Special to The Ukrainian Weekly pared to Ukraine to an adolescent entering champion of Ukraine, had travelled abroad sons that for 20 years of independence we his teens, albeit with stunted growth. and had tasted life different from that in the have not achieved the same success in KYIV – To mark the 20th anniversary of Others emphasized the unique opportu- Soviet Union. Therefore, I, like many building a state, as the Baltic states or the the re-establishment of Ukraine’s indepen- nity and potential that Ukraine has to Ukrainians, perceived the political events Georgians, our former neighbors in the dence, The Ukrainian Weekly asked some become a geopolitical player in Europe, but of the early ‘90s optimistically because we Soviet Union, who have been independent of Ukraine’s political, civic and cultural lamented that the country has taken every had a chance to start a new life. since the 1990s. leaders to answer the question: Where does possible detour on the route toward that Ukraine has been an independent state Today Ukraine is again on the verge of Ukraine stand 20 years into its existence? goal. for 20 years now. It is a short period, but choosing its path. Now it is more important We cast the net far and wide, knowing Others saw Russia as the key external long enough to analyze how we have lived than ever – because we see the devastating that many would be on vacation and diffi- impediment to Ukraine’s development and, over these years, what he have achieved effects of authoritarianism. This is imposed cult to track down, or simply unwilling to at the same time, Ukraine’s still Soviet elite and what we have lost. I’d like to note that on the nation by the current Ukrainian gov- dwell on this question. Our assumptions as the major internal obstacle holding the sovereign Ukraine has become a country of ernment. Everything considered to be the proved right. nation back. new opportunities for its citizens. I’ll tell achievement of a young Ukrainian democ- But when former Prime Minister Yulia Following are the responses received you about myself: travel, study, and a wide racy can in an instant be lost, unless we Tymoshenko was jailed on August 5, many from seven activists from Kyiv, Kharkiv range of exposure to people have allowed stand up to defend our rights to become national deputies cut their vacations short and Lviv. me to accumulate the necessary experience truly free. We shall lose our opportunity to to return to Kyiv and take action in support * * * for political activity. I’m certain that there be heard and be accepted by the interna- of what Arseniy Yatsenyuk called “the Vitali Klitschko, world boxing cham- are similar personal histories of develop- tional community. We will return to our institution of democracy.” The irony was pion, Hero of Ukraine, leader of the ment in each Ukrainian citizen. starting position and will never be able to that those who did promise to answer our Ukrainian Democratic Alliance for But, at the same time, we are still far become a sufficiently powerful nation on question now said they were too distracted Reform (whose acronym UDAR means from realizing the many ideas proclaimed which the Russian ruble and the European by the dire political situation surrounding “punch”) political party: back in 1991. We were not able to fully currency rate, and the policies of our neigh- the Tymoshenko trial to give the question In 1991, several months before the proc- seize the opportunity that history has given bors – the European Union and Russia – some thought. lamation of independence of Ukraine, I was us. What saddens me most is that over the would depend. Several themes emerged in the com- 20 years old. I was young then, yet I had years we have not built a new Ukrainian ments that we did succeed in gathering. already achieved something in life: I system of values – an alternative to an out- (Continued on page 11) 2 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 No. 34

ANALYSIS

Ukraine rejects criticism PRU: Western diplomats are biased private deposits in the banking system by the beginning of August grew by 30.4 bil- of Tymoshenko’s arrest KYIV – National Deputy Leonid lion hrv, reaching 302.2 billion hrv. In Kozhara, the deputy chairman of the Party July, the net inflow of private funds to hence Moscow’s nervousness (see EDM, of Regions responsible for international banks grew by 1.4 percent to 4.1 billion Opposition struggles April 22). politics, who served as first secretary of hrv. Deposits in national currency grew Prime Minister Mykola Azarov, the political section of the Embassy of more quickly. Hryvnia deposits in July to organize protests speaking at Ms. Tymoshenko’s trial, Ukraine in Washington in 1994-1997, increased by 1.7 percent or 2.67 billion claimed that the government had consid- expressed surprise at the desire of the U.S. hrv, whereas foreign currency deposits ered disputing the contract in court ambassador to meet in jail with former increased by 1 percent or 1.47 billion hrv. by Pavel Korduban (UNIAN, August 5). Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko. “Over Among the main reasons for the contin- Eurasia Daily Monitor The Ukrainian leadership ostentatious- 20 years of my diplomatic practice – and I ued growth in the volume of private ly distanced itself from Ms. worked in different countries, including a deposits, experts say, was the restoration Kyiv has flatly rejected foreign criti- Tymoshenko’s arrest. President long time in America – this is the first cism of former Prime Minister Yulia of trust on the part of depositors in the Yanukovych’s spokeswoman, Darka time I heard that a foreign diplomat had national banking system, and the possible Tymoshenko’s August 5 arrest for con- Chepak, told the opposition website asked to visit a national of another state in tempt of court. While the West was told growth of household incomes. Ukrayinska Pravda on August 5 that as the jail,” Mr. Kozhara said. “If a national of (Ukrinform) that the executive cannot interfere with judiciary was independent in Ukraine, Mr. his state was in jail, that is understand- court decisions, Russia was reminded ad Yanukovych would not interfere, and will able, it is his job, above all, as the consul- PM Azarov: no more revolutions nauseam that the 2009 gas contract for continue his summer vacation. Mr. Azarov ar official,” he added. “But since this is a KYIV – Ukraine has reached the limit which Ms. Tymoshenko is standing trial said Ms. Tymoshenko should blame her- request to visit a foreign national, then it of revolutions, Prime Minister Mykola benefited Gazprom, but was disadvanta- self as she had mocked the judiciary, add- looks a bit surprising, and the question Azarov told reporters on August 16. geous to Ukraine. ing that the courts were independent of arises: Is an ambassador or diplomat tak- According to him, all who are now calling Foreign pressure on Kyiv for her the executive (Interfax-Ukraine, August ing the side of the defendant?” Recalling for revolutions simply want to regain release remains Ms. Tymoshenko’s only 6). Hardly by coincidence, Ms. the period of the presidency of Viktor power. “It’s their main goal. For them the hope as the opposition is weak and frag- Tymoshenko was arrested immediately Yushchenko, the lawmaker emphasized revolution is a means. In your dreams. No mented, her own popularity is probably at after Mr. Azarov’s testimony, during that at that time no foreign diplomat more revolutions. We are done with revo- the lowest point of many years, and popu- which she made denigrating remarks expressed a desire to meet with Yevhen lutions,” Mr. Azarov emphasized. The lar protests are difficult to organize during against him and the court chairman. Kushnariov or Borys Kolesnikov, repre- prime minister said Ukraine needs stabili- a holiday season and without rich spon- Ms. Tymoshenko’s Batkivschyna Party sentatives of the Party of Regions, which ty, and economic and social development. sors, many of whom have left announced open-ended protests. However, was then in the political opposition, at “All this will come. All this is being done Tymoshenko to join the opposite camp. domestic reaction to Ms. Tymoshenko’s their detention center. Mr. Kozhara said, step by step,” he noted. Last week, former The European Union renewed its criti- arrest has thus far been muted. No more “the question arises about the possible Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, the cism of selective justice in Ukraine within than 200 Tymoshenko sympathizers political bias of the diplomat. This is in leader of the opposition Batkivschyna hours of Ms. Tymoshenko’s arrest, and the staged pickets and national deputies from conflict with the essence of diplomacy party, in an interview with The U.S. government demanded her party set up 20 tents in central Kyiv and the Vienna Convention on diplomatic Independent said that a new revolution in Tymoshenko’s immediate release over the weekend. Buses with relations.” (Ukrinform) Ukraine is just “a matter of time,” and the (Interfax-Ukraine, August 5, 6; see Tymoshenko supporters arrived in Kyiv regime of Mr. Yanukovych is destined to Eurasia Daily Monitor, August 5). In from the regions on August 8, but the Ukrainian banks use social networking collapse. The questions were submitted to response, the Ukrainian Foreign Affairs number of protesters on Kyiv’s main KYIV – Ukrainian banks are looking Ms. Tymoshenko, currently jailed in the Ministry said that everything was in line street, Khreschatyk, hardly reached 5,000, for clients through social networking sites, Lukyanivsky detention center, through her with local legislation. The ministry said – even according to Fatherland’s own calcu- said Yaryna Lukan, head of the bank com- lawyers, and her responses were sent via tongue in cheek, given the notorious cor- lations, and some of these traveling from munication management department. the Internet. (Ukrinform) ruption in Ukrainian courts and their sub- further afield did not have enough to eat. “Entry to social networking for their cli- servience to the executive – that any calls At times, riot police brought to ents is only one of the strategies followed Court wants Yushchenko testimony for the Ukrainian leadership to reverse the Khreschatyk almost outnumbered the pro- by Ukrainian banks online. For some KYIV – Kyiv’s Pechersk District Court judge’s decision were “groundless” testers (Ukrayinska Pravda, August 8). financial establishments, presence on ruled on August 16 to accept the written because the courts are independent from This is a far cry from the 2004 Orange social networking sites was part of posi- testimony of former Minister of Finance the executive. “Ukraine’s executive stands Revolution when tens of thousands took tioning themselves as innovative compa- Viktor Pynzenyk, currently hospitalized aside from the trial of Yulia Tymoshenko to the Khreschatyk and adjacent nies,” Ms. Lukan explained. She added after an infarction, and to re-summon for- and has no intention to get involved there- Independence Square while being fed and that “through social networking sites it is mer President Viktor Yushchenko. in,” the ministry said in a statement warmed in the winter by the numerous possible to sell and to expand the client Meanwhile, the court rejected Mr. (www.mfa.gov.ua, August 6). businessmen who supported the protests. base.” According to recent data from the While Western reaction was expected, By contrast, many rich businessmen have National Bank of Ukraine, the volume of (Continued on page 24) Russia’s open support for Ms. Tymoshenko left Ms. Tymoshenko’s camp since her was apparently not. Immediately after her defeat in last year’s election, withdrawing arrest, the Russian Foreign Ministry called financial support. for an impartial investigation of the The holiday season does not favor mass Tymoshenko case and said that the 2009 protests in Kyiv. Also, few Ukrainians are The Ukrainian Weekly FOUNDED 1933 gas contract was “concluded in strict inclined to back the opposition. While half accordance with the national legislations the population or more supported the An English-language newspaper published by the Ukrainian National Association Inc., of the two states and with international opposition in the Orange Revolution pro- a non-profit association, at 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. law” (www.mid.ru, August 5). A Kremlin tests in 2004, Ms. Tymoshenko is currently Yearly subscription rate: $55; for UNA members — $45. source told the Russian daily Kommersant even less popular than the government. Periodicals postage paid at Caldwell, NJ 07006 and additional mailing offices. that Ms. Tymoshenko’s arrest would Support for her personally and her party (ISSN — 0273-9348) “hardly have positive consequences for fell below 10 percent in June, according to The Weekly: UNA: [Ukrainian President Viktor] GfK. Ms. Tymoshenko has not proposed Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 644-9510 Tel: (973) 292-9800; Fax: (973) 292-0900 Yanukovych” (Kommersant, August 6). any new ideas as a party leader for a long An anonymous Ukrainian government time, the economic blunders she commit- Postmaster, send address changes to: source told the same daily that Moscow’s ted when she headed the government will The Ukrainian Weekly Editor-in-chief: Roma Hadzewycz reaction was nervous and ill-considered. not be forgotten soon, and her confronta- 2200 Route 10 Editor: Matthew Dubas The source recalled that Moscow unoffi- tional style in the courtroom has hardly P.O. Box 280 cially backed Ms. Tymoshenko against added many supporters to her party. Parsippany, NJ 07054 e-mail: [email protected] Mr. Yanukovych in last year’s presidential Meanwhile, Ms. Tymoshenko’s party election and said that if the court found alone is too weak to organize serious pro- The Ukrainian Weekly Archive: www.ukrweekly.com the gas contract was illegal, this could tests while the opposition in general is provide grounds for its revision – not in disunited. Following Ms. Tymoshenko’s Moscow’s favor (Kommersant, August 8). arrest, numerous small opposition parties The Ukrainian Weekly, August 21, 2011, No. 34, Vol. LXXIX Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Minister have announced plans to unite their efforts Copyright © 2011 The Ukrainian Weekly Kostyantyn Gryshchenko, who was the against the government, and several of ambassador to Russia in 2009 and took them pledged to stage protests in the main part in the contract preparation, com- streets of Ukrainian cities on Independence ADMINISTRATION OF THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY AND SVOBODA mented on Moscow’s reaction by saying Day, August 24 (Ukrayinska Pravda, Walter Honcharyk, administrator (973) 292-9800, ext. 3041 that Russia was defending its national August 8; UNIAN, August 9). It remains e-mail: [email protected] interests at Ukraine’s expense (Interfax- to be seen whether they will succeed. Maria Oscislawski, advertising manager (973) 292-9800, ext. 3040 Ukraine, August 5). fax: (973) 644-9510 Kyiv apparently has not abandoned The article above is reprinted from e-mail: [email protected] Eurasia Daily Monitor with permission the idea of using the case against Ms. Mariyka Pendzola, subscriptions (973) 292-9800, ext. 3042 Tymoshenko as a bargaining chip in the from its publisher, the Jamestown e-mail: [email protected] continuing gas talks with Moscow, Foundation, www.jamestown.org. No. 34 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 3 Yushchenko testifies at highly charged Tymoshenko trial

and crimes against the Ukrainian people Tymoshenko trial, saying it appears to be and state.” the politically motivated prosecution of Meanwhile, supporters of the Orange an opposition figure. Revolution heroine charge the president, The trial is expected to draw added known for his close ties to Russia, of using international attention when Ukraine cel- the legal proceedings – not to mention a ebrates 20 years of independence next possible jail sentence – as a way to limit week. Ms. Tymoshenko’s political activities. “I come to the court every day. I come The story above was written by Kristin here for myself,” Svitlana, a Tymoshenko Deasy, with contributions from Yeugen supporter, told RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Solonyna and Olena Removska of RFE/ Service outside the court on August 17. RL’s Ukrainian Service and agency “If Tymoshenko is imprisoned, we’re all reports. imprisoned. They will knock on my door Copyright 2011, RFE/RL Inc. and say, ‘Hey, you’re wearing vyshyvan- Reprinted with the permission of Radio ka [traditional embroidery], so go to the Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 UNIAN prison.’ I come here for freedom, for my Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington DC Former President Viktor Yushchenko speaks to reporters outside the Pechersk own freedom.” 20036; www.rferl.org (http://www.rferl. District Court, where he testified in the trial of Yulia Tymoshenko on August 17. Both the United States and the org/content/ukraine_yushchenko_tymosh- enko_trial/24299331.html). RFE/RL ing the 2008 talks leading up to the deal. European Union have condemned the “But [Putin said] she replied, ‘No.’ And KYIV – Cries of “shame!” greeted that’s what derailed the negotiations.” Ukraine’s former President Viktor “There was a complete breakdown in Yushchenko as he entered a Kyiv court the negotiations,” he added. IN THE PRESS: Yulia on trial on August 17 to testify against his former Mr. Yushchenko’s court appearance prime minister, Yulia Tymoshenko, in her comes out of a long history with Ms. “Democracy on trial,” The authority by pushing the gas deal abuse of power trial. Tymoshenko. The two used to be a team, Economist, July 30: through without consulting her own Ms. Tymoshenko, currently the coun- working at the forefront of the country’s “… Mrs. [Yulia] Tymoshenko’s case, government, committing a cardinal pro- try’s leading opposition figure, is charged 2004 Orange Revolution, a series of pro- which has been heard on and off in a cedural error. To compound her alleged over a 2009 deal she signed with Russian tests over the disputed election of rival stuffy courtroom in Ukraine’s capital sins, they accuse her of striking a bad Prime Minister Vladimir Putin that raised Viktor Yanukovych that ultimately hand- over the past month, offers a lively but bargain for Ukraine, losing the country the price Ukraine paid for its gas. ed Mr. Yushchenko the presidency. disturbing insight into the country. Mr. almost $200 million. … The 50-year-old Ms. Tymoshenko faces Ms. Tymoshenko served as prime min- [Viktor] Yanukovich’s [sic] government “Indeed, Mr. Yanukovich’s credibili- up to 10 years in jail if convicted on ister twice under Mr. Yushchenko’s 2005- has framed the trial as part of a new ty and commitment to democracy are in charges she says are politically motivated. 2010 administration. anti-corruption drive, insisting that it is the dock alongside her. If at the end of In court, Mr. Yushchenko said the But the two quickly fell out, which not revenge for past political slights. it, he is seen to have used the judicial terms of the 2009 deal had looked bad but some say helped paved the way for the Nor, it claims, is it about torpedoing system to settle personal political that he did not have the authority to pre- return of current president, Mr. Mrs. Tymoshenko’s chances of compet- scores, his espousal of democracy will vent Ms. Tymoshenko from signing it. Yanukovych. Mr. Yushchenko and Ms. ing in a parliamentary election next look hollow. As it is, a trial designed to He said Russia had initially offered a Tymoshenko both ran against him in the year or in the presidential vote due in enhance his authority risks undermin- more reasonable price, but Ms. country’s tightly contested 2010 presi- 2015. ing it. Were Mrs. Tymoshenko to be Tymoshenko turned the offer down – and dential election. “Yet Mrs. Tymoshenko is not facing jailed (she faces a maximum sentence was later forced to accept a much higher The case against Ms. Tymoshenko is charges of straightforward graft. of 10 years), she is likely to emerge as a price. divisive in Ukraine. Lyudmila, a protester Rather, it seems as if her political political martyr. And Mr. Yanukovich “Putin said, word for word, ‘I personal- taking part in an anti-Tymoshenko protest record and managerial competence are would be stuck with precisely the label ly offered [Tymoshenko] the price of $250 outside the Kyiv court on August 17, told on trial. …According to state prosecu- that he has worked so hard to shed: that per 1,000 cubic meters and re-exports,’” RFE/RL’s Ukrainian Service, “Yulia tors, Mrs. Tymoshenko exceeded her of a neo-Soviet autocrat.” Mr. Yushchenko told the court in describ- Tymoshenko must answer for her actions

NEWS ANALYSIS: Ukraine trial uniting Ukraine’s political opposition

by James Brooke Europe was grateful three years ago when criminal group.” In a dig at the fashion Voice of America Ms. Tymoshenko acted to end the sense of Ukraine’s former prime minister, Russian gas cutoff. Now, he asks, “Why one poster reads “Louis Vuitton Medals: KYIV – Today, Ukraine’s democracy is Europe quiet?” The Brand of the Opposition.” can be heard five blocks away. France, Germany and Sweden recently Far from the passions of the street, Booming down the central avenue of criticized the trial. Political analysts say Alyona Getmanchuk directs the Institute Kyiv, the capital, towers of loudspeakers that a conviction could provoke the of World Peace, a Kyiv research organi- proclaim the innocence or guilt of Yulia European Union to delay a free trade pact zation. She says President Yanukovych Tymoshenko, the nation’s former prime with Ukraine. made a big political mistake by prosecut- minister. From Washington, Obama administra- ing Yulia Tymoshenko. Twenty meters away, in a 19th century tion officials also criticize the trial, say- Ms. Getmanchuk says that, by putting courthouse, Ms. Tymoshenko, Ukraine’s ing it is an example of selective justice Ms. Tymoshenko on trial, Ukraine’s pres- leading opposition politician, grimly sits and only opposition figures are on trial ident has united the opposition, drawn through another day of her trial for abuse for corruption in Ukraine. sympathy for his main political rival and, of power. Five steps from the Tymoshenko tent unwittingly, started her political rehabili- On the street, rival camps give rival camp, anti-American rhetoric blares from tation. views of the trial. loudspeakers at the camp for supporters On the foreign policy side, she says, With a red marker, Olga Mola, a of President Viktor Yanukovych. Ukraine’s president is uniting East and 30-year-old schoolteacher, paints “I heart Speakers charge the United States with West. Yulia” posters. interfering in Ukraine’s internal affairs. Europe and the United States are criti- She says if Ms. Tymoshenko is con- At the Yanukovych camp, a guard in a cal of the trial. But criticism also comes victed, it will be the end of democracy black windbreaker physically shoves me from the Kremlin. and the rule of law in Ukraine. back to the sidewalk. A second attempt, Moscow, she says, opposes the trial Ms. Tymoshenko is not on trial for at a different entrance, is more successful. because it calls into question a gas supply stealing money. She is on trial for signing As young men in black jackets and deal signed by Prime Minister Putin. In a gas deal with Russian President skinhead haircuts wave anti-Tymoshenko addition, by criticizing the trial, Moscow Vladimir Putin in January 2009. The deal banners, Ludmila Soloviova, a 29-year- focuses attention on a weak spot in ended a crippling mid-winter gas short- old organizer, agrees to talk. Kyiv’s drive to cut a trade deal with age in Ukraine and Eastern Europe, but Ludmila says that a politician who Europe – the fragile state of democracy in now prosecutors charge that she abused steals should not be able to hide from jus- Ukraine. her powers signing a 10-year deal at high tice just because he or she is an opposi- Andrey Skakodub/UNIAN prices. tion leader. Reprinted, as permitted, from the Voice A supporter of Yulia Tymoshenko on Near Olga’s white tent, Miroslav Taped to the black banners of of America, August 15 (http://www. August 15 outside the courthouse Nabyl, a 33-year-old scrap metal worker, Ludmila’s compound are the slogans voanews.com/english/news/europe/ where her trial is taking place. On that complains that Europe is turning its back “Theft of the People’s Property: Shame” Ukraine-Trial-Uniting-Ukraines- day, the court rejected a sixth petition on Ms. Tymoshenko. He charges that and “Tymoshenko leader of an organized Political-Opposition-127799478.html). for her release from prison. 4 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 No. 34

Diaspora leaders share their thoughts about independent Ukraine modern, democratic and prosperous Ukrainian society, united under the proud banner of the blue-and-yellow national flag, with Ukrainian being restored to its rightful place as the official state language. Two decades later, as Ukraine continues to struggle to overcome its legacy of repression and foreign domination, there are disturbing signs that efforts are being made to undo many of the hard-won achievements of Ukrainian independence, and to challenge Ukraine’s territorial integrity and right to a sovereign existence. There is a growing body of evi- dence that Ukrainian national identity is under threat, political opposition is being undermined, and pressure is being applied to curtail freedom of speech. It is, therefore, crucial that all Ukrainians, both in Ukraine and in the diaspora, work together to ensure that the principles upon which Ukraine’s independence was established are not eroded or compromised. We must be ever vigilant that Ukrainian leaders not revert to the dis- credited practices of the past or avoid being held democratically accountable for their decisions and actions. In 1991, Canada became the first Western nation to recognize Ukraine’s independence, and since that time Canada has been a stalwart friend of Ukraine and Chrystyna Lapychak/The Ukrainian Weekly the Ukrainian people. The Ukrainian August 24, 1991: The scene outside the Parliament building after the vote to approve the Act of Declaration of the Canadian Congress urges the government Independence of Ukraine. (The view is from a window inside the building.) of Canada and Ukrainian Canadians to use this special relationship and our mul- To mark the 20th anniversary of the re- Ukraine’s future depends, in part, on brate the 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s titude of historical, familial and organiza- establishment of Ukraine’s independence the values that have been instilled over independence. tional ties with Ukraine to encourage its on August 24, 1991, The Ukrainian the past two decades. Will internal politi- Unfortunately, most of Ukraine’s democratic, economic and cultural devel- Weekly asked Ukrainian diaspora com- cal bickering and lack of opportunity pre- recent positive developments have taken opment. munity leaders to share their thoughts vent the country from furthering its goals root in western and central Ukraine. The and feelings about Ukraine, where it’s to become a part of the greater Euro- Eastern and southern oblasts, still struc- Stefan Romaniw, president of the been and where it’s headed. The survey Atlantic community? Or, will the govern- turally and emotionally stuck in the Australian Federation of Ukrainian was conducted by Roma Hadzewycz. ment dedicate itself to its nation’s needs Soviet era, rejected President Viktor Organizations: (Editor’s note: Eugene Czolij, presi- and aspire to create a country whose pres- Yushchenko’s great vision for a truly 20 years on! Time to reflect as to how dent of the Ukrainian World Congress, ence in the world is a testament to its national Ukrainian state. Tragically, he we have contributed to the community and Myroslava Rozdolska, president of own success? These, and other questions, did not develop a workable strategy to we live in, how we have maintained and the New Ukrainian Wave, which is based can only be answered by the will of the implement his vision, and many of his shared our Ukrainian religious beliefs, in the United States, were also asked Ukrainian people. closest advisers did not share this vision. our heritage and ancestry in Ukraine or in back on August 4 to participate in this The UCCA continues to pray that The Ukrainian diaspora can do little, the diaspora. discussion. Unfortunately, they did not Ukraine will prosper, that the freedom- however, to directly influence a change in It’s time to ask: What can I do now to submit responses to our question; Mr. loving people of this noble land will Ukraine’s current well-known negative maintain or and share these, or in some Czolij indicated that he is very short of flourish, and that the dream of a truly and anti-Ukrainian policies. Memoranda cases to reconnect? time these days.) independent and democratic Ukraine will to President Yanukovych seldom even We can identify problems, but more soon become a reality. God bless elicit a reply. Similarly, protests before importantly, what about finding the solu- * * * Ukraine! Ukrainian Embassies will doubtlessly tions, whether in Ukraine or the diaspo- Tamara Olexy, president of the have the hoped-for effect. ra? Ukrainian Congress Committee of Ihor Gawdiak, president of the Diasporan efforts should be directed It’s time to recommit in our own fami- America: Ukrainian American Coordinating toward the governments of the countries lies, in our own hearts — being The realization of the dream of Council: in which they live. We in the U.S. should Ukrainian is something special. This Ukraine’s restored independence in 1991 Despite recent unhappy developments relentlessly pressure President Barack needs to be fed, nurtured and protected. was a result of the dedicated efforts of in Ukraine, we should joyfully celebrate Obama, the only president since 1991 not In Ukraine it’s time to take the future millions of brave Ukrainians. Along with the 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s inde- to have visited Ukraine, to engage with in our hands and not wait for all to be independence, and Ukraine’s sudden pendence. The last 20 years, the longest Ukraine in a meaningful way. Using the eroded. Currently it is not a healthy situa- reappearance on the world map, came uninterrupted existence of an independent “carrot and stick” method by the U.S. has tion. euphoria and, with that, the stark reality Ukraine in modern history, have wit- a far greater chance of affecting What will it be like in 20 years’ time? of rebuilding a country devastated by nessed some truly historic events: the Ukraine’s policies than anything the dias- Where will Ukraine be? Where will the centuries of imperialism. The challenges bloodless revolution of 1991 and a uni- pora can do. community I live in be? These are insepa- that Ukraine faced were daunting – versal recognition of Ukraine’s indepen- rable and connected. Yes, it’s a good time potential internal ethnic strife that could dence; the upwelling of hope and sense of Paul Grod, president of the to take stock, reflect on the past and look to tear the nation apart; an overpowering national unity– albeit short-lived – Ukrainian Canadian Congress: to the future. neighbor that threatened the very exis- inspired by the Orange Revolution; the Twenty years ago, the people of On this occasion, the Australian tence of Ukraine as a state; and, a wary slow but spreading acceptance by Ukraine resoundingly voted to realize an Federation of Ukrainian Organizations global community speculating on the Ukrainians of the universal concepts of age-old dream and to peacefully establish calls on: nation’s every move. democracy and various human rights; the a free and independent Ukrainian state. A • The president and government of However, Ukraine has persevered and, emergence from the underground and state that left behind the oppression of the Ukraine to change course and ensure in 20 years of independence, has weath- great vitality of the Ukrainian Catholic Soviet Union to join the community of Ukraine, Ukrainian, and things Ukrainian ered many storms. While many positive Church and the Ukrainian Orthodox independent nations, with decisions being be the driving force. Ukraine must takes attributes have been attained in Ukraine, Church (Kyiv Patriarchate), the flourish- made in the ancient Ukrainian capital of up its rightful place among the nations of democratic reform has not come easily ing of its major universities, such as the Kyiv, not Moscow. The adoption of the the world and ensure that free speech, and to this day remains a constant strug- Kyiv Mohyla Academy, and the estab- declaration of independence was to mark academic freedom, political positioning gle. Yet the tenets of democracy are root- lishment of the Ukrainian Catholic a return to long-suppressed traditions of and the Ukrainian language and history ed in Ukraine’s long and rich history, and University in Lviv. There has also been a Ukrainian democracy following centuries are not compromised. At present there are were made evident in Ukraine’s “second” steady increase in the availability of con- of tsarist autocracy and 70 years of many contentious issues that need imme- entry onto the world stage through the sumer goods. Communist Party dictatorship. Thus climactic Orange Revolution. Yes, there are a lot of reasons to cele- began the difficult process of creating a (Continued on page 23) No. 34 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 5

UCCA-New York Ivanka Zajac, president of the New York Branch of Adrian Dlaboha, external affairs officer for the New Stepan Kaczurak, a member of the Oranization for the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, York Branch of the UCCA, reads a statement on the Defense of Four Freedoms for Ukraine, protests with addresses protesters. Yanukovych regime in Ukraine. his daughter Ksenia. Ukrainian Americans protest anti-democratic regime in Ukraine

UCCA leaders, including: Tamara Olexy, president of the Yanukovych is endeavoring to assure its own long-term UCCA; Mr. Lozynskyj; Ivanka Zajac, president of the political viability by silencing all Ukrainian civic orga- NEW YORK — On Wednesday, August 10, more UCCA-New York; Michael Koziupa, president of the nizations and individuals that are critical of his anti- than 100 Ukrainian Americans gathered before Organization for the Defense of Four Freedoms for democratic and anti-Ukrainian policies.” Mr. Koziupa Ukraine’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations on Ukraine (ODFFU) and president of the UCCA called on the U.S. government to take swift action 51st Street (between Second and Third avenues) in New Whippany Branch; Adrian Dlaboha, UCCA New York against the anti-democratic policies of the Yanukovych York to protest the severe backsliding of democracy in external affairs officer; and, Vasyl Labunsky, editor of regime. Ukraine, and to call for the immediate release of former Nova Hazeta and member of the New Ukrainian Wave. Mr. Dlaboha reminded those gathered about the Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, who was arrested The protesters sang Ukrainian songs, loudly con- growing importance of online social media activism, and jailed in Ukraine on August 5. demned the actions of the Yanukovych administration, and discussed the strengths and advantages of using Ms. Tymoshenko has been charged with contempt of and called for Ms. Tymoshenko’s immediate release, Facebook and Twitter as tools to disseminate informa- court, but many Ukrainians in Ukraine and the West – as stating that her arrest and trial were but one example of tion and organize mass action. well as numerous Western leaders, including representa- the anti-democratic policies of the Yanukovych regime. He stated, “Have no doubt that your cohorts in tives of the European Union and the U.S. government – UCCA President Olexy, stated, “…we are here today Ukraine are passionate like you, and that there are many believe the charges may be politically motivated to win to bring home the point that this arrest does not merely of them. Have no doubt that you’ll find common ground a conviction that would render Ms. Tymoshenko ineligi- threaten one person’s liberties, but the liberties of every there, a forum to speak your mind, and a place to hear ble to run for office in the 2012 parliamentary elections Ukrainian citizen.” Ms. Olexy urged all freedom-loving the views of like-minded people … I promise you that or against Ukraine’s current president, Viktor governments to “speak out against the Yanukovych Yanukovych and his administra- Yanukovych, in the 2015 presidential elections. regime’s anti-democratic actions in the interest of tion are underestimating just Organized by the New York branch of the Ukrainian defending democracy and human rights in Ukraine.” how influential you can be.” Congress Committee of America (UCCA), and led by Mr. Koziupa read a statement which noted, “Rather Protest organizers vowed to Askold Lozynskyj, president of the International than strengthening Ukraine’s independence and sover- continue their actions until Conference in Support of Ukraine and former president eignty, enhancing its democratic institutions, improving Ms. Tymoshenko is released of UCCA and the Ukrainian World Congress, the protest the people’s livelihoods and focusing on building mutu- and the Yanukovych included speeches by prominent Ukrainian community ally beneficial market relations, the regime of Viktor regime disbanded.

Protesters remind the regime who their heroes are (Stepan Bandera and Roman Shukhevych), another holds a sign that reads “Democracy in Ukraine – Not Stalinism!

Stefan Slutsky Children join Askold Lozynskyj, president of the International Conference Protesters inform onlookers about the situation in Ukraine. in Support of Ukraine, in singing Ukrainian songs. 6 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 No. 34 FOR THE RECORD: UCCA statement The Ukrainian Weekly on Ukraine’s independence anniversary The 20th anniversary Following is the text of the statement Yet, as we distinctly understood in We’ve heard the comment: There’s nothing to celebrate this year as Ukrainian released by the Ukrainian Congress 1991 and still appreciate today, the road Independence Day approaches. Yes, it’s true, it does seem that on this 20th anniversa- Committee of America on the 20th anni- to democracy is not an easy one, espe- ry of Ukraine’s re-established independence recent developments could be catego- versary of Ukraine’s restored indepen- cially when contending with the oppres- rized as the good, the bad and the downright ugly, with emphasis on the latter two. dence. sive legacies of tsarist Russia as well as The good: First of all, Ukraine still is independent and recognized as such by all the Soviet regime – legacies that have left the world’s states. And it has made a lot of progress since 1991 in terms of building a On August 24 the worldwide an indelible mark on the Ukrainian democratic state. Even the presidential election of 2010, which brought in the neo- Ukrainian community will be marking a nation. As in the past, the familiar bully- Soviet Yanukovych regime, was deemed by international observers to be free and major milestone in Ukraine’s history – ing tactics of the Russian Federation con- legitimate. Civic activism has grown, and NGOs have become increasingly active. the 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s tinue to threaten the territorial integrity of Ukraine has surrendered all its stocks of highly enriched uranium – a move that won restored independence. On this day in Ukraine. Russia has made claims on praise from world leaders. Ukraine has good relations with its neighbors and contin- 1991, the Parliament of Ukraine over- Crimea by negotiating an extension of the ues to cooperate with various international organizations, including the United whelmingly approved the Act of lease for its Black Sea Fleet stationed in Nations, NATO and the European Union. Declaration of Independence of Ukraine, the region, which is in direct violation of The bad: Two top opposition leaders in Ukraine, former Prime Minister Yulia freeing the nation from the clutches of the Ukraine’s Constitution. It has also taken Tymoshenko and former Internal Affairs Minister Yurii Lutsenko, are imprisoned Soviet Empire. steps to solidify Ukraine’s energy depen- while they stand trial; they, and other members of the opposition, are victims of selec- Two decades ago, the fervor for dency on Russia and has vehemently tive prosecution by the state in what clearly are politically motivated trials. Ukraine Ukraine’s liberation struggle was realized opposed Ukraine’s ambitions to join the still does not have an independent judiciary, and the administration of President – a zeal paralleled by the faith of all free- Euro-Atlantic community, particularly Viktor Yanukovych has repeatedly demonstrated its authoritarian tendencies. The dom-loving people enslaved under the the European Union (EU) and NATO. Kharkiv agreement of April 2010 allowed the basing of the Russian Black Sea Fleet yoke of communism, who hoped to live At the same time, we must not over- on Ukrainian territory through the year 2042 – in contravention to the Constitution of free from foreign domination and estab- look the current backsliding of democrat- Ukraine that forbids foreign military bases on Ukrainian territory. There have been lish a way of life in accordance with their ic principles in Ukraine. Over the last significant rollbacks of media freedom, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, own unique culture and traditions. These several months, political opponents have etc., that have resulted in Freedom House downgrading Ukraine’s status from free to basic human impulses were realized after been intimidated and/or arrested, numer- partly free. The situation in today’s Ukraine is such that Ukrainian rights advocates centuries of struggle, and the loss of mil- ous journalists have been harassed, civil and dissidents of the Soviet era on August 4 announced the establishment of a Public lions of lives in the 20th century alone, as liberties have been quelled and Ukraine’s Committee for Defense Against Political Repressions in Ukraine. a result of atrocities perpetrated on the national identity has been threatened. Yet, As for the downright ugly, there are the policies of the Ukrainophobic minister of Ukrainian people by the Soviets. thankfully, pro-democratic forces in education, science, youth and sports, Dmytro Tabachnyk, whose hate for things Following countless political and cultural Ukraine have remained vigilant in the Ukrainian sometimes seems boundless. He’s an embarrassment, even to the repressions, forced labor, the Gulag and struggle to build a democratic nation, Yanukovych administration. Then there are the expansive celebrations of Soviet holi- massacres, as well as such egregious secure Ukraine’s freedoms, and defend days, while Ukrainian national holidays are downgraded or disparaged, and the deni- crimes as the Holodomor of 1932-1933. civil right and liberties. al of the Holodomor as a genocide targeting the people of Ukraine. Ukraine formally declared itself an inde- The Ukrainian American community Nonetheless, on this 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence declaration we pendent, sovereign and democratic state. must also remain vigilant and continue to should celebrate. And we should do so by recalling how we felt back in 1991 when This brave step by Ukraine’s Parliament aid in the effort to secure and strengthen we witnessed an event that many of us had dreamed of for decades: the rebirth of was then upheld by over 90 percent of a true democratic and independent independent Ukraine. It came just over a year after the July 16, 1990, adoption of the Ukraine’s citizens in a nationwide refer- Ukrainian state. It is important for us all, landmark Declaration on State Sovereignty of Ukraine, a far-reaching document that endum in December of that same year. on this 20th anniversary, to reaffirm our laid the groundwork for what was to come. Soon thereafter, on December 1, 1991, Over the past 20 years the Ukrainian strong faith in and commitment to came another milestone, when more than 90 percent of Ukraine’s people voted to nation has achieved many successes: the Ukraine’s independence. Achievement of approve the Parliament’s vote of August 24, 1991. Those were exhilarating and establishment of a vibrant civil society, this goal is fundamental for Ukrainians uplifting days indeed. membership in the World Trade everywhere. Twenty years later, we should look back at the road that independent Ukraine has Organization, a strategic partnership with On the occasion of the 20th anniversa- traveled. It has not been an easy road, but one marked by many bumps, potholes, the United States, peacekeeping forces in ry of Ukraine’s independence, the detours and pitfalls. All things considered, Ukraine has moved forward, perhaps not many of the conflict zones throughout the Ukrainian Congress Committee of as quickly and unswervingly as one would like, but largely in the right direction. world and an overall strengthening of America sends its warmest greetings to Therefore, on this 20th anniversary we should focus on the positive. As Oles Ukraine’s unique national identity. all Ukrainians, both in Ukraine and Shevchenko, a veteran activist of the rights movement, notes: “A generation has Furthermore, Ukraine has experienced a beyond its borders. May the Lord bless grown up that wasn’t born under Communism, one which never and for no reason cultural and political revival, as once the Ukrainian nation and grant it the wis- will want to return to the ‘Evil Empire.’ ” Similarly, Olha Aivazovska of Opora again the people are free to speak their dom and fortitude to secure an indepen- underscores: “…there is hope in a new generation of Ukrainians born during inde- own language, celebrate their unique his- dent, democratic Ukraine that can take its pendence who don’t have post-Soviet values. …they have Western values that shape tory and heritage, and freely express their rightful place among the nations of the their outlook and attitude… It is this generation that can become the basis on which voice in the political processes of the free world. new political elites appear. Only then can the country choose a clear course of devel- nation. Glory to Ukraine! opment that will have a chance to be realized.” So, on Ukrainian Independence Day 2011, we wish the Ukrainian nation a successful journey on its continuing road toward establishment of a free and open society, and a democratic and law-abiding state. Godspeed and Slava Ukraini! Ukraine’s ambassador to U.S. outlines achievements in 20 years of independence August Following are excerpts of remarks by Britain and France had at that time in Turning the pages back... Ukraine’s Ambassador to the U.S. total. Olexander Motsyk that were delivered However, on the appeal of the world during a business luncheon in New York community, and our American partners 24 Twenty years ago, on August 24, 1991, the Ukrainian SSR, with leading companies and investors. in particular, we made a voluntary deci- 1991 in direct consequence of the failed Soviet coup on August The luncheon was held on July 29 at the sion to eliminate this most powerful 18-21, 1991, adopted a declaration on the independence of law offices of Chadbourne & Parke. type of armament. It definitely was a Ukraine. major contribution of Ukraine to global Leonid Kravchuk, chairman of the Ukrainian Supreme Soviet (Verkhovna Rada), So, what we have achieved during peace and security. Such responsible cautiously steered a middle course between the opposition and the Communist-backed these 20 years of independence? actions could become an example for majority in Parliament. Progress is impressive: some other countries, which should Following the failed coup, Mr. Kravchuk urged citizens to remain “calm and 1. Ukraine is recognized by the whole abandon their nuclear programs and patient,” and underscored that the government would abide by the rule of law, regarding world as a responsible member of the arsenals to make the world a safer place the introduction of a state of emergency, which would have given legitimacy to the international community, a peace-loving to live. State Committee on the State of Emergency in the USSR. He hinted that coup may have and tolerant nation. Our path from state- Continuing its consistent efforts to been illegal, but appealed for unity “in the name of democracy.” hood aspirations to the independence of further diminish risks connected with “It is precisely our unity that will guarantee the failure of attempts of whatever kind the present we passed peacefully, with- nuclear technologies and materials, by whomever to act outside the Constitution, to return society to the kinds of ruling or out any internal and external conflicts, Ukraine made a historic decision to sur- other structures, both in the center and locally, which could stand above the law.” without any bloodshed. render all highly enriched uranium by Commenting about the failed coup on the news program “Vremya,” Mr. Kravchuk 2. Upon the collapse of the Soviet 2012. As of today, most of the stock has said “that which happened should have happened,” adding that perhaps it could have Union, Ukraine inherited the third larg- already been removed from Ukrainian taken other forms but the main problem was that the center was incapable of governing. est nuclear arsenal (176 strategic ballis- territory. On August 24, 1991, during an extraordinary session of the Verkhovna Rada, Mr. tic missiles, about 50 long-range strate- We continue close cooperation with Kravchuk said he had decided to resign from the Central Committee of the Communist gic bombers, 1,300 nuclear warheads our American partners to synchronize and 2,500 nuclear tactical units). To (Continued on page 30) compare, it is more than China, Great (Continued on page 30) No. 34 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 7 INDEPENDENCE DIARIES: U.S.A. recognizes Ukraine PERSPECTIVES by Andrew Fedynsky by Askold S. Lozynskyj On the eve of President Bush’s speech, The New York Times had reported that On August 1, 1991, President George H. President Bush would come to Kyiv as W. Bush gave a speech in Kyiv, Ukraine, President Gorbachev’s emissary and that Ukrainian at 20-something later termed by William Safire of The New he would be denounced by Ukraine’s York Times, the “Chicken Kiev” speech. independence movement as having been I was 22 in 1970 when three friends and counseling youth, setting up chairs for an It was a clinic in Realpolitik: hypnotized by Gorbachev. The Times I got a rare “camping visa” allowing us to “Some people have urged the United event, selling tickets at a zabava or sweep- stressed the fact that even the visit to drive into Soviet Ukraine. At the border States to choose between supporting ing up after everyone else had gone home. Ukraine itself would be “on his way home with Hungary, authorities subjected the President [Mikhail] Gorbachev and sup- The point, also felt viscerally and physi- from Moscow.” green Volkswagen microbus we had bought cally, was to keep the culture alive while porting independence-minded leaders The declaration of Ukraine’s indepen- throughout the USSR. I consider this a in Germany to a three-hour search, disman- urging government officials and the media dence came some three weeks later on tling the tires, seats, wall and ceiling pan- to press the Soviet government on human false choice... We will maintain the stron- August 24, 1991. els. They confiscated a couple of books and rights and national self-determination – not gest possible relationship with the Soviet The Ukrainian Congress Committee of a Playboy magazine. As we left to drive because it would change Soviet practices, government of President Gorbachev. But America met Ukraine’s declaration with a we also appreciate the new realities of life through the Carpathians, we saw the chief, but to offer moral support to the real war- greeting and an immediate appeal to the feet on his desk, examining the decadent, in the USSR. And, therefore, as a federa- government of the United States: riors: those in Siberian labor camps, in pris- tion ourselves, we want good relations – bourgeois publication. on or an insane asylum; to let them know “We appeal to the United States gov- Arriving in Lviv, we immediately made improved relations – with the republics… that someone knew of their sacrifice and ernment to support the Ukrainian people friends with Ukrainians our age, staying up In Ukraine, in Russia, in Armenia and the supported their cause. Day by day, year by and recognize the declaration of its inde- late at a bar chatting, laughing, singing Baltics, the spirit of liberty thrives… pendence. Today much depends upon the year, their courage announced that the only “Yet freedom is not the same as indepen- songs and, as it turned out, attracting undue position of the United States. We turn to attention. From that point forward two car- thing holding the rotten system together dence. Americans will not support those President George Bush and the govern- was fear. Like water dripping on a rock, the who seek independence in order to replace loads of KGB agents followed us every- ment of the United States to manifest where. Mysterious people approached us, dissidents’ resolve ultimately prevailed and a far-off tyranny with a local despotism. unequivocal support to the democratic the “Evil Empire” collapsed. They will not aid those who promote a sui- offering deals, probing for personal infor- forces in Ukraine, establishing direct rela- mation, chiding us for speaking Ukrainian, My wife and I have a son who’s 20 and cidal nationalism based upon ethnic hatred. tions and assistance in overcoming the a daughter who’s 16. They’ve never known We will support those who want to build while those we wanted to meet avoided our vestiges of the occupational regime and company. Simply put, Ukraine was a police a Ukraine that is not independent and free democracy… so many Ukrainian strengthening the independence of Americans are with me in the remarks I’ve state, a nation threatened with extinction. and, indeed, our son’s recent experience Ukraine within the world community of Over the course of the previous 40 was in stark contrast to my own 40 years made here today.” democratic states.” Just one week before the speech was years, Ukraine had lost upwards of 20 mil- ago. Within only a few days the leadership lion people in two famines, a purge of the Attending a French university for his delivered the Ukrainian Congress of Russia proper manifested an age-old Committee of America had transmitted a political, religious and cultural elite, a junior year, he arranged to spend 2011 New propensity towards disrespect for its world war, mass deportations to Siberia and Year’s in Lviv. He flew in from Vienna and letter to the president in which the UCCA neighbors’ sovereignty, leveling territorial emigration to the West. “Internationalism” connected with friends he had met at the stated: “Despite the United States’ long- claims. The UCCA responded with an standing policy on the inviolability of the – a policy directed toward creating a new Ukrainian Catholic University (UCU) sum- appeal to the President of the United Russian-speaking Soviet nationality – was Soviet Union, it is the position of our mem- States: mer program two years before. Later, he ber-organizations that this policy is not eliminating religion and erasing the culture. met with a fellow American who was at “The Ukrainian American community The government and Communist Party – only unprincipled, but that it is also, in the is deeply concerned over a recent state- UCU working on a Fulbright project. They long run, destabilizing.” one and the same – exercised total power; were then joined by other 20-somethings ment by the Russian Federation’s hence the term totalitarian. Absolute mes- President Bush’s speech in Kyiv was President, Boris Yeltsin, about possible from the U.S., Germany and a French recived by the Ukrainian American com- sage control, censorship, wire taps, infor- Ukrainian whose father owns an apartment territorial claims on Ukrainian lands… We mants, interrogations and, if necessary, munity with concern (mildly put). The appeal to you, Mr. President, and to the in downtown Lviv; somebody knew some- arrest and imprisonment created the most UCCA voiced this concern: government of the United States to mani- body who knew somebody else. Over the insidious of controls: peer pressure and “Our member-organizations had hoped fest support for and recognition of an course of several days, our son met with self-policing. People kept in line, while the that the president would use the occasion to independent Ukraine and intervene on people his age from five different countries. state shaped the mindset of the young. express American support for all those who behalf of stability and democracy. The ter- The common language was Ukrainian. No We spent all of 10 days in Soviet have suffered in the past and continue to ritorial integrity of independent Ukraine as Ukraine – enough time to know that one bothered them. Pervasive fear is gone. suffer today as a result of Moscow’s colo- that of any independent state must be the oppression is something you feel viscerally, That’s the good news. nialist policies… Furthermore, legitimate concern of our government…” physically. It was nerve-wracking and Now the bad: Twenty years after inde- aspirations to decolonize the USSR cannot The UCCA pursued Ukraine’s recogni- exhausting, and we breathed a sigh of relief pendence, corruption poisons the society; be characterized as... ‘suicidal nationalism tion when it learned that Ukraine’s as we left the Communist zone. Hundreds there’s an unhealthy and dangerous income based on ethnic hatred.’ Despotism is the Parliament chair, Leonid Kravchuk, was of millions in Ukraine, Russia, the Baltics gap between a handful of very wealthy and foundation upon which empires are built. traveling to the United States and Canada “Indeed the history of the Soviet Union and elsewhere didn’t have that option. the bulk of the population; bizarre prosecu- in September 1991: tions of political opponents on the part of is replete with not only blatant ethnic “On September 25 and 26, Leonid Ukraine today is utterly different. the Yanukovych administration is alienat- hatred, but also the execution of millions of Kravchuk, head of the Ukrainian National symbols abound. People engage ing the European Union and the United innocents through acts of genocide. Parliament, will be in Washington. On in debate and demonstrate. The borders are Advocates of Ukrainian independence, on behalf of Ukrainian Americans, we urge open. Consumer goods are readily avail- States and, in the process, jeopardizing the the other hand, have been and continue to you to meet with Leonid Kravchuk as the able. Communication is free. country’s future; Russia continues to med- be profoundly democratic and ethnically representative of the government of newly All that didn’t just happen. A tiny, self- dle. broad-based. In fact the re-establishment of independent Ukraine, to begin the process selecting group challenged the Soviet sys- That said, 20 years of independence is a an independent Ukrainian state will guaran- of direct relations between the United tem by refusing to pretend that everything big deal. Indeed, it’s the longest stretch tee the rights of all minorities which reside States and Ukraine… While Leonid was normal. It was not and they said so, since medieval times. For my own personal within its borders… Kravchuk faces significant democratic putting it in writing, boldly signing their celebration, I read Ivan Franko’s epic poem “We were further surprised when the opposition in a presidential election on names to poems, declarations, letters and “Moisei” in which he draws a parallel president concluded his assertions by stat- December 1, he does enjoy the support of then clandestinely circulating their manu- between the ancient Jews’ aspirations for ing that Ukrainian Americans support him the democratic opposition in Ukraine for scripts so others might know and perhaps the Promised Land and Ukrainians’ inde- in these remarks. The Ukrainian American this visit to the United States. The rela- join them. pendence aspirations in 1905. Addressing community is united in its support for the tions between the new nations which As a Ukrainian American, I played a his countrymen, Franko proclaims his faith promotion of democracy and freedom in could be initiated next week would be small role in the process. If you were born in “the strength of spirit and resurrection Eastern Europe… the Ukrainian American in 1980 or earlier and are reading this col- continued by the president popularly elect- day of your insurgence; [when] as domestic community has been united in its support umn, chances are you did too. ed on December 1…” sovereign, you’ll look upon your own for full Ukrainian independence… Only an You might have gone to a community Chairman Leonid Kravchuk met with home, your own fields.” independent Ukrainian state can ‘restore President Bush at the White House on event where an elected official delivered a power to citizens demoralized by decades speech or offered a proclamation. Maybe For the Jews of Moses’ time, it took 40 September 22, 1991. years of wandering so that those shaped by of totalitarian rule.’ Only an independent In addition to applying direct pressure you are or were one of those elected offi- Ukrainian state can give the people ‘hope, cials. There have been thousands, from slavery would die off and the children who on the administration of President Bush, played at crafting models of cities out of inspiration, determination.’… the UCCA reached out to its friends on local city councils to the White House. desert sand might take over. Ukraine has Unfortunately, the president chose to pro- Capitol Hill. In October 1991 a concurrent Supporting human rights in Ukraine was mote the interests of Mikhail Gorbachev resolution was submitted to both houses of morally right and served America’s geopo- been independent now for 20 years. The rather than the aspirations of the freedom- the U.S. Congress, expressing the sense of litical interests; plus, it was good politics. country is halfway toward the Biblical loving Ukrainian people.” Congress that the president: “Should recog- There were votes and lots of energy in the span. There are no guarantees. Like every nize Ukraine’s independence and undertake Ukrainian community, most of it based on other country, Ukraine is a work in prog- Askold S. Lozynskyj was executive steps toward the establishment of full dip- volunteerism centered in a myriad church- ress, always has been, always will be. vice-president in 1990-1992 and presi- lomatic relations with Ukraine should the es, organizations, publications, etc. which dent in 1992-2000 of the Ukrainian provided an outlet for idealism, from peo- Andrew Fedynsky’s e-mail address is Congress Committee of America. (Continued on page 9) ple writing articles and signing checks, to [email protected]. 8 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 No. 34

Experts comment on Ukraine’s 20th anniversary each espouses. The best assurance of Ukraine’s independence is a country in which democracy and the rule of law, including an independent judiciary, are firmly rooted and where there are normal rules of the game and a level playing field for business – both domestic and foreign. As long as you continue to have a system with massive, pervasive, high-level corruption – which I believe is the single greatest internal threat to Ukraine’s national security – and where the rules of the game overwhelmingly favor a small elite ruling circle focused on its own personal enrichment, Ukraine will not realize her full potential. If Ukraine is to succeed in the long term, current and future political elites need to fully internalize the notion that their first responsibility should be to serve the nation and people rather than their own vested interests. There needs to be a dramatic shift in the political culture to one of transparency and accountability in which the ruling elites – especially elected officials – respect the dignity of those they are supposed to serve. If this hap- pens, I am confident about independent Ukraine’s long-term future prospects.

Chrystyna Lapychak/The Ukrainian Weekly Roman Szporluk is the Mykhailo S. Hrushevsky Emeritus Professor of August 24, 1991: The scene on Kyiv’s October Revolution Square – later renamed Independence Square – as the public Ukrainian History at Harvard celebrates Ukraine’s newly re-established independence. University, and is a faculty associate at the Davis Center for Russian and On the occasion of the 20th anniversa- Ukraine has also had a series of nation- 20-year independence is cause for cele- Eurasian Studies at Harvard ry of Ukraine’s re-establishment of inde- al and local elections that have led to bration and there has been considerable University. He is currently working on pendence, experts were asked by Matthew peaceful transfers of power. Ukraine has progress in some respects, the quality of new books about modern Ukraine and Dubas of The Ukrainian Weekly to com- elected four presidents. While these elec- that independence clearly is lacking. Ukrainian-Russian relations: ment on the developments in Ukraine dur- tions have been marred by irregularities – Ukraine has missed many opportuni- Everybody knows that independent ing the past 20 years under the Kravchuk, and outright fraud in the case of the 2004 ties over the course of the last two Ukraine faces many problems and diffi- Kuchma, Yushchenko and Yanukovych presidential election that led to a new decades. A huge missed opportunity – to culties. administrations, e.g., their domestic poli- election and the election of President consolidate and institutionalize democra- We hear about the political and person- cies (the Ukrainian language, culture, [Viktor] Yushchenko – a process has been cy and the rule of law – was the failure of al in-fighting within the ruling elite in history, educational); foreign policy; and/ established for the peaceful transfer of the Orange Revolution to achieve many Kyiv and the corruptionin the government or developments in the economic sphere. power. Equally important, unlike many of of its ends. While Ukraine did become and justice system, educational institu- What do these developments portend for her neighboring states, Ukraine has estab- freer after the Orange Revolution, rule of tions and business – mass corruption on the future of Ukraine? Their responses lished a host of political parties, all of law and corruption remained problematic all levels, it appears. follow below. which serve as a foundation for the con- and since Viktor Yanukovych’s election Relatively less public attention is paid tinued development of a civic and partici- we have seen troubling backsliding on to such fundamental problems of contem- Roman Popadiuk, the first U.S. patory society. Ukraine also possesses human rights and democracy, as well as porary Ukraine as the condition of the old ambassador to Ukraine (1992-1993), numerous natural resources that augur some attempts to undermine Ukraine’s Soviet industrial areas (most notably in serves as executive director of the well for future economic development. historic, linguistic and religious identity. the Donbas region), the crisis in agricul- George Bush Presidential Library On the international level, Ukraine has Another opportunity lost has been in ture, the country-wide health crisis, and Foundation (1999-present): been able to maintain a stable relationship energy independence, the lack of which is the demographic crisis. As Ukraine sets to celebrate its 20th with Russia, while at the same time Ukraine’s point of greatest vulnerability There is no need to continue listing anniversary of independence, a common extending its role within the larger inter- with respect to Russia and most serious Ukraine’s “problems,” least of all on the view is that it is a stalled state, unable to national community. Ukraine has partici- external security threat. Ukraine’s various eve of August 24. Most of Ukraine’s move forward on major economic reform pated in a variety of peacekeeping mis- leaders have simply not done what is nec- problems and difficulties are a legacy of and with a fraying democratic fabric. This sions. It has also become a member of the essary to achieve this, and corrosive cor- the pre-1991 era. Those who compare the contrasts markedly with the pre-indepen- World Trade Organization and is increas- ruption in this sector most certainly performance of independent Ukraine with dence confidence of 20 years ago when ing its efforts for greater integration into hasn’t helped. those of the Baltic nations or East Central Ukraine was viewed as a state with great Europe. Ukraine also gave up its large Another is the failure of Ukraine to European countries overlook the fact that economic potential and as a state with nuclear arsenal, underscoring its own anchor itself more firmly into Euro- Ukraine had no “interwar period” great social and political vibrancy, once commitment to peaceful state relations Atlantic structures. This is not entirely between 1918 and 1939: instead it experi- the Soviet hold was lifted. In truth, neither and, through this step, serves as an exam- Ukraine’s fault, but I believe that Ukraine enced the Holodomor and Great Terror view reflects or reflected reality. Ukraine ple to other states. would be much better off from a security, then. Those of us who were so optimistic is not the failure many portray it to be, nor That Ukraine faces numerous challeng- democracy and prosperity standpoint if she 20 years ago ignored the fact that Ukraine is its success as easy or guaranteed as early es is undeniable. The backsliding in dem- were in NATO and especially if she at least declaring its independence was itself a observers believed. ocratic rights, the persistent corruption had EU membership prospects and closer product of the Soviet era. The record, as with any process of state- and the inertia on economic reform all practical ties with the European Union. Now we understand that it will take building, is mixed. Overall, Ukraine’s suc- pose formidable hurdles. On the 20th Ukraine – despite the current demo- more than one post-Soviet generation to cesses outweigh its shortcomings. anniversary, however, the people of cratic reversals – will not turn into a fully heal the wounds and solve the problems Ukraine’s existence as a state is a success Ukraine have much to be proud of when authoritarian, un-free, regime such as Ukraine inherited from the Soviet era, not in itself given the fact that many observers they take their short history into perspec- Belarus or Russia. And it won’t be com- to mention responding to the new global believed that Ukraine would not be able to tive. They have maintained their indepen- pletely dominated by Russia. No challenges of the 21st century. survive the pangs of independence and the dence and state and have established Ukrainian government will allow that, Although the challenges are enor- pressures of the Russian nationalists, par- democratic principles that can serve as and we’ve increasingly seen that even the mous, we may close on a positive, indeed ticularly as regards Crimea and the Black the foundation for overcoming the chal- Yanukovych regime’s relations with very optimistic note. Independent Sea Fleet. Ukraine has established its pres- lenges they face. Russia are far from ideal. In the short to Ukraine, with its capital in Kyiv, has sur- ence as a state, deftly dealing with the reli- medium term, Ukraine will neither vived as an internationally recognized gious, ethnic and geographic fissures that Orest Deychakiwsky is policy advi- become a failed state nor will it be a com- state. It has maintained peace with all its could have split the society apart. sor, U.S. Commission on Security and plete success story. Realistically, I’m neighbors and avoided civil strife and Ukraine’s ability to deal with those issues Cooperation in Europe (Helsinki afraid she will continue muddling along armed conflicts within its borders, whether serves as an example in a region which has Commission): for awhile, caught between Europe and experienced a variety of conflicts. While the fact of Ukraine’s now Russia, and the practices and values that (Continued on page 30) No. 34 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 9

VOX POPULI: Young Ukrainians comment on independent Ukraine As the 20th anniversary of Ukrainian independence Michael Stepowyj, age 19, Scouting Organization. These organizations allow me to approaches, people recall the history of Ukraine and Rockaway, N.J.: “My father has show my love for Ukraine.” how it came to be the country it is today. The parents always been involved in every- Adrian Teniuch, age 17, and grandparents of today’s teens remember the days thing that has to do with the Yonkers, N.Y.: when Ukraine was under Soviet rule. As for the motherland. My grandfather was “When I was a Ukrainians born after the declaration of independence the first generation to come to child, Dido told me stories that you would see in movies or read on August 24, 1991, they only know the stories their par- America, and he witnessed first- about in history books, but I per- ents and grandparents have told them about Ukraine’s hand the oppression during sonally never had to fight for my fight for Independence, or what they learned in Stalin’s rule. My grandfather country’s independence. Ukraine Ukrainian school. Nonetheless, this younger generation made sure to never forget the was free, and that’s the way it has still has strong beliefs and Ukrainian pride. Here is hardships Ukraine has been stayed throughout my life. Now what the people born once Ukraine became independent through, and this knowledge has that I’m starting college and have had to say about the 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s inde- been told to my father and, in turn, to me. I care a great begun getting involved in the pendence when queried by The Ukrainian Weekly’s sum- amount about Ukraine. I believe the independence is proof political status of Ukraine, I real- mer intern, Taissa Hamulak. of how strong-willed the country is. After countless tragic ize that our people are like an army – an army willing to events in history, such as Stalin’s dictatorship and the fight for their country and, more importantly, their culture.” Ostap Gladoun, age 19, Chornobyl accident, it is amazing to see how Ukraine got New York: “Words cannot through it all and became free.” Mariana Pylypiw, age 14, explain how grateful I am for Katia Tomko, age 17, Randolph, N.J.: “As an active the Ukrainians who fought Millburn, N.J.: “My entire life member of the Ukrainian com- and their efforts to bring I’ve considered myself munity, I feel like I know a lot Ukraine where it is today. Ukrainian above all else. I about Ukrainian history – espe- Being born after Ukraine won believe that the Ukrainian com- cially about independence, its independence, however, munity in the U.S. has allowed since it happened only two does not mean that I do not our culture to thrive and grow decades ago. My family and share the same beliefs as my among the diaspora. I intend to some of my friends were alive parents and grandparents. If I celebrate August 24 in to experience it and share with learned anything, it’s that the Wildwood with all of my me their stories about fighting battle isn’t over. Ukraine may friends. This gathering of hun- for freedom. Although I do be free, but it still has a long way to go. It’s up to the dreds of Ukrainians for a week know a lot about Ukrainian his- younger generation of new Ukrainians to continue the of celebration is yet another tory and independence, I know that I don’t understand the fight for our culture and our language.” example of the strong pride the Ukrainian diaspora has for entire story. But I am really striving to learn more because, all that our country has done. I’m grateful for all that I as a proud Ukrainian, it is important to be educated about Vika Mosuriak, age 18, have learned about my heritage and intend to pass on my your heritage.” Morris Plains, N.J.: knowledge to my children.” “Although I was born after the Marko Temnycky, age 18, ratification and did not witness Julianna Komichak, age 18, Syracuse, N.Y.: “I was born a any of the true struggles which Cleveland: “My parents tell me year after Ukraine got its inde- my family and friends before that before 1991 it was not very pendence. I have heard stories of me had to undergo, it breaks common to meet a Ukrainian what Ukraine used to be during my heart knowing how diffi- family that had recently arrived the Soviet regime from my cult it was for them to simply here in America. Today it is a grandparents and when I attend- fight for the independence of different story. I see hundreds of ed Ukrainian school every their native Ukraine, as well as Ukrainian families every day. I Saturday. Today, Ukraine is a what they truly believed in. see them in church, at the gro- thriving nation celebrating its Having been told stories by cery store, in my school and at 20th anniversary of indepen- my grandparents, parents, as well as being taught about it Plast camp in the summer. None dence. Ukraine will be co-host- in SUM [Ukrainian American Youth Association] and of this existed 20 years ing the Euro Cup next year, the third largest sporting event Ukrainian school, makes me extremely appreciative and ago. Since Ukraine received its in the world, along with Plast celebrating its 100th anniver- aware of how tight knit and strong a culture we are. This independence, I honor all the Ukrainian traditions, and I sary in Lviv. These two major events will be celebrated on fills me with pride – such pride that every morning I am active in the Ukrainian community. I am enrolled in independent Ukrainian soil, a thought which would never wake up, I thank God for my family, my health and for the Kashtan School of Dance, I perform with the Zorya had been considered in a Soviet-ruled Ukraine. This is just blessing me with such a rich culture.” Female Vocal Ensemble, and I am a leader in the Plast the beginning of the greatness of the Ukrainian nation.”

Russia has historically manifested an aggressive posture… August 24 Act of Declaration of the Independence of U.S.A. recognizes Ukraine... “Perhaps if Ukraine were to feel that it has an ally in the Ukaine.” Still there was no recognition. (Continued from page 7) United States, its people might sense that their freedom is On December 8, 1991, Belarus, Russia and Ukraine secure. However, that sense of security was proven false in issued a declaration establishing the Commonwealth of December 1, 1991, referendum confirm the Ukrainian Hungary in 1956, Czechoslovakia in 1968 and, more Independent States, de facto bringing about the end of Parliament’s independence declaration; and should use recently, although on a smaller scale, in Tbilisi in 1989 and the USSR. The UCCA was concerned since this new United States assistance, trade and other programs to sup- the Baltic states in 1990. CIS was perceived at the outset as some form of succes- port the government of Ukraine and encourage the further “Given incessant American pronouncements in support sor to the USSR. development of democracy and a free market in Ukraine.” of Moscow and central control and negative assertions on The UCCA issued a statement: “While it is still too Further, the UCCA attempted to sway public opinion whether to recognize independent Ukraine, there is no rea- early to fully comprehend the impact of the December 8 through public rallies for international recognition of son for the Ukrainian people to believe that American poli- joint Byelorussian [Belarusian]-Russian-Ukrainian dec- Ukraine’s independence, the first of which was held in cy has changed… For that reason the people of Ukraine laration of the Establishment of a ‘Commonwealth of New York City on August 27, 1991, across the street have to be prepared to defend themselves.” Independent States,’ it appears to contravene Ukraine’s from the United Nations. Three major rallies were held The referendum on Ukraine’s independence was sched- Declaration of Sovereignty of July 16, 1990, its simultaneously in Lafayette Park in Washington, in uled for December 1, 1991. Several days prior thereto, a Declaration of Independence of August 24, 1991, the Chicago and in Los Angeles on October 1, 1991. delegation of the Ukrainian American community met with recently concluded referendum and recent legislation. In October 1991 the Parliament of Ukraine voted to cre- the president of the United States at the White House. At That legislation gives tangible substance to Ukraine’s ate its own army, navy and air force with an aggregate that time a memorandum was delivered to the president strength of 420,000. The U.S. Department of State overre- urging recognition, assistance, bilateral relations, trade, independence by providing for the introduction of acted, stating that the Ukrainian plan appears “to run coun- credits, democracy and free market development programs, Ukrainian currency, the formation of its own armed forc- ter to the efforts of all the nations of Europe and North sponsorship in international structures (IMF, World Bank, es, border control, foreign affairs, etc. …” America to reduce military forces and enhance stability.” GTT, OSCE), most-favored-nation trade status, a The United States recognized Ukraine on December The UCCA responded to the State Department’s Ukrainian trade mission in the U.S., “adversely affected” 25, 1991, the same day that Soviet President Mikhail assessment: categorization for immigration purposes, a Peace Corps for Gorbachev formally announced his resignation and, “Ukraine’s need for armed forces is not a concern for Ukraine, humanitarian assistance for Chornobyl victims thus, the de jure dissolution of the USSR. This simulta- the United States nor for Europe as Ukraine does not pose and technical assistance for Chornobyl clean-up, and more. neous recognition of the USSR’s demise and Ukraine’s a threat to either. Ukraine’s need is strictly self-preserva- During the meeting, President Bush assured the commu- existence was classic realpolitik. Simply put, reality had tion. Ukraine declared its independence on August 24, nity that recognition of Ukraine by the United States would a new player. The United States simply acquiesced. 1991. Within four days President Boris Yeltsin asserted be forthcoming, depending upon the Referendum result. This year Ukrainians mark the 20th anniversary of claims against Ukraine’s territorial integrity… On December 1, 1991, the people in Ukraine voted Ukraine’s independence and the 70th anniversary of the Unfortunately, Mr. Yeltsin’s example is not an aberration. overwhelmingly – more than 90 percent – to ratify the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America. 10 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 No. 34

Lessons of Ukrainian independence: A fresh perspective

This is the first in a series of articles commemorat- moderator Oleksander Moroz the final draft of the ing the 20th anniversary of Ukrainian independence. “Act of Declaration of the Independence of Ukraine,” An interview with Irene Jarosewich, a former volun- the audience fell completely silent. “Everybody was teer with Rukh, sheds new light on the events sur- waiting for him to come in,” recalled Ms. Jarosewich. rounding the eve of Ukraine’s democracy movement. “[Pavlychko] hands Moroz the piece of paper, Moroz reads it. He looks diagonally halfway across the audi- by Lindsay Pearlman torium to [Ukrainian Communist Party leader UCCA Stanislav] Hurenko, sitting in the middle and nods.” Mr. Moroz read the text aloud and then Stanislav NEW YORK – “It sort of began in a very nonde- Hurenko, a tall man, rose and spoke for a few min- script manner,” began Irene Jarosewich. The utes, ending his statement with “Today, comrades, we Washington native was volunteering as a translator and will vote for Ukraine’s independence, because, if we media liaison in Ukraine for the democracy movement do not vote for her independence, then there will be Rukh when the unthinkable occurred. On August 19, trouble for us.” 1991, she was roused from her sleep in the early hours “When Hurenko gave his final directive as the of the morning by a fellow volunteer pounding on the leader of the Communist Party of Ukraine,” said Ms. doors of the hotel in Dnipropetrovsk, in south-central Jarosewich, “a directive to vote for Ukraine’s inde- Ukraine, who was yelling: “coup, coup in Moscow! pendence that, for me, was the moment that the Soviet Everybody out! Everybody get ready! There’s been a Union came to an end. Without Ukraine, there could coup in Moscow.” be no Soviet Union.” “Honestly, and I say this to everybody,” laughed When the meeting ended, said Ms. Jarosewich, Ms. Jarosewich, “my first reaction was that somebody some reluctant Communist Party members attempted still had not recovered from a party from the night to escape through an underground passage. “I’m not before ... I did not take the cries seriously!” However, sure why the Rukh guys were there,” she smiled, but the events unfolding in Moscow were a serious matter, they apparently anticipated an attempt to break quo- as Ms. Jarosewich soon learned. A group of hardline rum, so they “had shut and locked the doors so there Communists had seized control of Russia’s capital was no way the parliamentarians could get out of the while Mikhail Gorbachev and Boris Yeltsin were trav- Irene Jarosewich building.” eling, throwing an unstable Soviet Union into chaos. These Party members eventually gave in and joined Ms. Jarosewich rushed to gather the leaders of power on Ukraine. As the Russian Duma planned a special session for August 24, “news got out to jour- their colleagues in the assembly hall to vote. After an Rukh, the opposition group for which she worked. almost unanimous vote for the independence of “U.S. consular officer John Stepanchuk, who was a nalists in Moscow that Ukraine is also having a meeting on the 24th in their Parliament, but this time, Ukraine, the hall, as Ms. Jarosewich remarked, “just guest of Rukh, and I opened up a door to the room of bust loose.” While the Communist Party members [Rukh leader and former Soviet prisoner of con- they’re going to declare independence,” recalled Ms. Jarosewich. According to Ms. Jarosewich, what fol- walked out, Vyacheslav Chornovil and other leaders science] Vyacheslav Chornovil, who was standing at of Rukh took the Ukrainian flag, supposedly brought the far end of the room at the window, listening to lowed was a “multi-day adrenaline rush.” Her work with Rukh over the next week spanned time zones and from Moscow, where it had draped the tank on which broadcasts on his shortwave radio …He turned to us President Yeltsin stood and spoke during the coup, and he kind of just smiled and… rubbed his hands disciplines; as one of the few English-language speakers on-site, she was in high demand: and draped it over the speaker’s podium. They contin- together and said ‘Ah, my American friends. They’ll ued to sing Ukrainian songs until, Ms. Jarosewich return your passports and send you back to America, “We had computers, we had copiers, we had people smiled, “the cleaning ladies came and told them to but me, they’ll send me back to Siberia.’” in place, we had buses, we had cars, we had infrastruc- ‘Get out!’ ” Filled with anxiety, Rukh’s members soon flooded ture, we had a network, we put out a daily fax that we Looking back, Ms. Jarosewich said she regards cer- back into Kyiv by any means of transportation possi- sent out to Western correspondents in Moscow about tain aspects of her experience with wry amusement. “I ble. Ms. Jarosewich found herself on a daylong, over- what was going on in Ukraine. We had an alternative came to Ukraine during the light bulb crisis. Honestly, packed bus ride from the Chervona Ruta music festival infrastructure in place that could produce,” she noted. not to have light bulbs for months on end… you had with the music of “Swan Lake” playing repeatedly Ms. Jarosewich, who later joined the editoral staff one light bulb in your apartment and you walked over the radio waves. “I can never listen to that ballet of The Ukrainian Weekly and went on to become edi- around with it from room to room!” However, those music again,” she said ruefully. tor-in-chief of Svoboda, remembered the painstaking Upon arriving in Kyiv, several dozen members of work of making copies on the outdated and flimsy days of shortages of such essentials as light bulbs and Rukh squeezed around a small television set to watch machines that were available. “We made copies of var- soap were attempts by the Communist Party to desta- as the coup unfolded. It soon became evident, Ms. ious drafts of the ‘Act of Declaration of the bilize Mr. Gorbachev, actions that foreshadowed the Jarosewich recalled, that the coup had been sloppily Independence of Ukraine’… We were trying to save on coup. organized. A key turning point occurred when Boris paper and toner… we’d put two copies of the half- Memories more closely tied to the marathon of Yeltsin condemned the coup, she said. page text on the copier, and then we’d cut it apart with achieving independence warrant a more reflective “Specifically, [the coup] began to break apart when scissors! These are the details people have to know, tone. “In some ways, when I think back in retrospect, Yeltsin, who was then the head of the Russian Duma, how down to the wire it was. The administrative staff people ask ‘How did it happen?’ well, Ukraine really came out and said, ‘No! I’m not supporting the coup of the Parliament was on vacation, so Rukh staff did a was primed,” Ms. Jarosewich pointed out. …’ That was a critical step… My personal opinion is great deal of the preparatory work.” In speaking of her colleagues, the Rukh volunteer that if Yeltsin had not done that, I am not so sure that On the morning of August 24, in front of the reaffirmed the sense of satisfaction independence Ukraine would be independent right now… The fact Verkhovna Rada, the Ukrainian Parliament, Ms. brought: “Rukh, the opposition movement: that one that there was opposition in Ukraine was not the key Jarosewich met with her colleague Christine Lapychak week in August was the reason for its existence.” point at that moment. The fact that, within Russia, a of The Ukrainian Weekly to witness the negotiations. Yet, when the initial elation abated, Ms. Jarosewich powerful political force, such as the head of the At that point, said Ms. Jarosewich, there still was no and her colleagues also understood that a long road Russian Duma, got up and said ‘we won’t go,’ was certainty that the vote for independence would take lay ahead for Ukraine. “Chornovil made one interest- really very critical,” she underscored. place. The proceedings began with sluggish momen- ing toast,” she remembered, as people gathered during Backing Yeltsin was not only Rukh, but also tum; several hours passed before enough politicians the evening of August 24. “He said, ‘Today we voted Ukrainian government factions that had previously arrived from their overnight train rides. Then the for the independence of Ukraine. History will remem- been sympathetic to the Russian communists. “‘We intense debate began. ber this day. To an independent, but soviet [radianska] don’t want to be part of this game anymore’” Ms. The all-or-nothing moment of the session occurred Ukraine.’” Ms. Jarosewich noted that the people gath- Jarosewich quoted their thinking. “This idea was com- with the news that Soviet President Gorbachev, stand- ered protested, but he continued, “‘We must under- ing from all factions, and on different levels.” ing in front of the Russian Duma, had declared the stand who we are and what we’ve done… we’re not On August 20, the push for Ukrainian indepen- Central Committee of the Communist Party “null and completely free. It is an independent Ukraine, but it is dence began to pick up speed. The movement was void,” said Ms. Jarosewich. It was at that point that the not the type of independence for which we were hop- grassroots, born from the mutual disapproval of Ukrainian Communists realized “this was their moment ing. We need to be aware of that.’ ” Russia’s tactics and practices that had only added to of truth.” After requesting a recess, party members Along with Ms. Jarosewich, prominent community Ukraine’s suffering. “People from Rukh literally drove gathered in a huge auditorium in the basement of the leaders of the Ukrainian diaspora and those in around to the ‘dachas’ where the members of Parliament building to discuss their next move. Ukraine have worked since 1991 to protect and devel- Parliament were vacationing, because you had to get a Ms. Jarosewich and Ms. Lapychak managed to slip op Ukraine’s independence and, most importantly, certain number of signatures to hold a special session,” into the caucus, whereas most other journalists were ensure that Rukh’s message of democracy and remembered Ms. Jarosewich. “Of course, the barred from entering. She was one of only a handful of accountability stays relevant in the nation’s political Ukrainian nationalists had no government clout behind non-party members to witness the historic gathering. dialogue. them… we just had the will of the people, but the will The Ukrainian Communists, who supported the coup, Although Vyacheslav Chornovil’s warning proved of the people was actually quite strong. People were she noted, wanted to protect themselves from the antici- true and multiple setbacks to democratic development angry.” pated punishment from Messrs. Yeltsin and Gorbachev. have occurred, they have not hindered activists’ By August 22, Messrs. Yeltsin and Gorbachev had This was their incentive to vote for independence. efforts to reform the Ukrainian system. What the returned to power in Moscow, but the coup had per- When Rukh leader Dmytro Pavlychko entered the reformers have accomplished in 20 years stands noth- manently destabilized the fragile grasp of Soviet auditorium to give the Communist Party meeting’s ing short of extraordinary. No. 34 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 11

In the last 20 years, as the postmodern proceeded on a points of civic activism that influences the country’s demo- Movers and shakers... conscious critique of and/or reflexive reaction to both tra- cratic choice. ditional culture and the legacy of the Enlightenment, free Though in recent years our news programs suffer from (Continued from page 1) Ukrainians discovered themselves to be in a very heady pressure on media owners and self-censorship, we have environment. The exhilaration stemming from political lib- noted a backlash against democracy and politically moti- In short, there is much debate about how well or how erty was replaced by pop-cultural, communicational and vated court trials of the previous government’s leaders, the poorly we have lived for 20 years in independent Ukraine. commercial inebriation. Today many Ukrainians have a atmosphere of freedom of speech gained in 2004 cannot be But our well-being, stability, and our place in the political hangover from binges. This is not the worst of situations. defeated. And although Russia’s historical and geopolitical arena of the future depend on us, our will and our actions. Ukraine’s hard history and contemporary experience of influence was and is strong, meanwhile all our [past and superficial overstimulation are fostering immunity to the present] governments pursue European integration and are Oles Shevchenko, former Soviet-era political prison- allure of easy answers. They may, in fact, summon its citi- sensitive to critical messages from the European Union and er, member of the Ukrainian Helsinki Group, leader of zens to a spiritual depth and a creative “podvyh” [feat] that the West. the Ukrainian Helsinki Union, member of the Popular will be of lasting and broad import. My hope and prayer is Movement of Ukraine (Rukh), national deputy of the that Ukrainians will not be too exhausted or disheartened Oksana Zabuzhko, writer, poet, essayist and civic Verkhovna Rada in 1990-1994: to seize this unique, precarious and possibly providential activist: The 20th year of independence is the biggest national opportunity. Ukraine finds itself more or less where every post-colo- holiday of the Ukrainian people. nial country stands 20 years into its existence: halfway to I’m proud of my nation, which for 350 years, as a colony Olha Aivazovska, chairwoman of Opora, a non-prof- achieving independence. When in his time George (Yurii) of Muscovite imperialism, managed to preserve its free- it network of civic activists: Shevelov tried to only hint to Ukrainians that indepen- dom-loving soul and ability to renew independent state- On the 20th year of independence, the majority of dence isn’t a one-off act, but a prolonged historical pro- hood. Ukrainian citizens, unfortunately, don’t have state-centric cess, people simply didn’t understand him. In 1991 the Indeed, in 20 years we weren’t able to fully become a sentiments. There are several reasons for this: the lack of a Ukrainian nation was still very poorly prepared for an European state. They reproach us by saying we had the best generally accepted national idea, an inexorable feeling independent political life. starting point in comparison with other former Soviet among a part of the population of its historical dependence These 20 years can be regarded as a period of establish- republics. on its eastern neighbor, and an inferiority complex with ing an adult political nation in the form of a post-Soviet However, let me take exception to that. regard to other European countries. But, most importantly, (very superficially “reformed”), oligarchic republic, which First, the entire economic complex of the USSR was Ukraine hasn’t yet molded a political elite. The group or for Ukraine today is evidently a children’s suit tearing at built in such a way that no republic could function separate- class that would put state or collective interests above their the seams for a teenager. ly: the nuts were built in Ukraine and the bolts in the Ural own has not yet had time to be born. Unfortunately, aside from internal factors, there are Mountains. However, there are positive trends that suggest external ones that gravely impede the process of our reach- Second, democratic forces in all these 20 years were Ukrainian reality can be changed for the better in the ing “adulthood” (it is not happenstance that contemporary never in power. The Communist majority in Parliament future. In particular, there is hope in a new generation of urban folklore has it that the “national idea of Ukraine is supported us not out of patriotic feelings but because they Ukrainians born during independence who don’t have based on everyone just leaving us alone”). But still, the were scared of the aftermath of the putsch in August 1991. post-Soviet values. Instead they have Western values that process is ongoing, although slackening and difficult, yet But, during the process of building a state, the leadership shape their outlook and attitude toward the state, economic irreversible. posts in the capital and in oblast capitals were taken over by and political freedoms, etc. It is this generation that can After slavery in Egypt, let’s not forget that it took 40 the Communist nomenklatura. become the basis on which new political elites appear. years for the former slaves to cross the desert. And it seems Third, the law-and-order forces which numbered not in Only then can the country choose a clear course of devel- this rule hasn’t changed since biblical times. the thousands but in the millions – the armed forces, police, opment that will have a chance to be realized. state security forces and judges – were not formed from But for the last 20 years Ukrainians have been led Andriy Shevchenko, national deputy of the Yulia among patriots. We were forced to simply re-organize them though the desert as if by the biblical Moses. Tymoshenko Bloc, chairman of the Verkhovna Rada’s under a Ukrainian state simply because there was nowhere Committee on Freedom of Speech: else to place them. Yevhen Zakharov, chairman of the Ukrainian We, as a nation, have learned how to be independent, Fourth, what to do with the 3 million Communist Party Helsinki Human Rights Union, co-chair of the Kharkiv but have still to learn the benefits and the responsibility of members? Put them on trial? Send them away? No, we Human Rights Group: interdependence – with our neighbors, with Europe, with simply re-educated them with the truth about history, In its 20 years of existence, Ukraine resembles an infan- the world. We have discovered the pride to be Ukrainian. because to start an internal war would have been fatally tile 14-year-old teenager who doesn’t clearly understand The unpleasant surprise was that it came with many things dangerous. Moscow is always ready for these occurrences what he is striving for and doesn’t have the confidence to to be ashamed of. to bring in its tanks out of brotherly aid. decide which way to go. Our greatest asset is territorial integrity. Given the com- And finally, the fifth reason, perhaps the most important. That’s is the eternal Ukrainian question – “Which way plexity of history and pressure from the outside, it was a The main mission of imperial Russia’s special services has do I go?” – that remains the biggest problem for this teen- miracle that Ukraine kept all its lands and its diverse peo- changed. While the USSR strove for world domination and ager, foremost because he has a poor memory. He heard ple together. No wars, no more fears of losing Crimea or focused its efforts on all continents, now all the fantastic something about his parents, grandparents, great-grandpar- the East – those are very valuable treasures. power of the Russian special services is being focused on ents being disparaged and destroyed, but by whom exactly The bitterest loss is the embarrassing failure to get rid of one country – Ukraine, without which the Russian empire and for what, he is not sure. Therefore, he doesn’t know corruption. With all the corrupt bureaucrats, high-profile has no future. what to do: he moves in one direction, then in the opposite thieves and ruthless courts, this whole system provides no It’s also worth mentioning that we, the Ukrainian demo- direction; he takes offense that no one says hi to him, or chance to reform the country and bring in prosperity and cratic forces, overestimated the West’s sincerity and its even is persecuted. justice. aspiration to assist Ukraine. During Ukraine’s first econom- But why? After all he’s likable, works hard, is smart, Are we going up or down? I would use my Kilimanjaro ic hardships, the West left her alone to fiercely withstand and wants to be everybody’s friend. However, he grows experience as a metaphor. In order to get to the top and to Moscow. Oh, how we need a Ronald Reagan in America, a very slowly, makes constant mistakes, and always remains avoid the high-altitude sickness, every day you have to Konrad Adenauer in Europe and a John Paul II at the holy poor, uneducated and provincial. And, as a consequence, climb 1,300 meters up and then descend 300 meters down. Vatican. he isn’t wanted in this adult world. With the present regime, we are doing our 300 meters In the unprecedented history of humanity, brother Poland Some empathize and help him, thinking he does have down. But there is no doubt that we will keep moving up suffered a huge blow. Brother Georgia has remained split. the potential to realize his flaws and overcome them. Some to become a successful European nation. This is a lesson for us. Only the strong are helped. Thus, we think it their duty to help this child grow up and become The new generation born in independent Ukraine, which will from now on count only on ourselves. strong; yet others, on the contrary, don’t want to see him is so different from the old Soviet guard in power, is the And let there be no doubt: Returning Ukraine under grow and gain strength. most convincing proof of that. Moscow’s yoke is impossible. A generation has grown up Nevertheless, he has difficulty identifying who his that wasn’t born under Communistm one which never and friend is, and who is just pretending to be his friend and for no reason will want to return to the “Evil Empire.” while actually being his enemy. Nonetheless, he hopes not without grounds, for the best: that he’ll be able to over- The Rev. Dr. Borys Gudziak, rector of the Ukrainian come his poverty and provinciality and make the world Catholic University, Lviv: take him into account. As it celebrates the 20th anniversary of its independence Ukraine appears to be a land of great dynamism, Yevhen Bystrytsky, executive director of the challenge and promise. In fact, one may argue that it International Renaissance Foundation, Ukraine: stands at the epicenter of contemporary history. In the 20 years of its independence Ukraine has gone Geographically, it is in the heart of Europe and on the cusp more than halfway from being a former Soviet republic to of the Eurasian encounter that is already catalyzing pro- being recognized as a free European country. found demographic, economic and political change. More The only bad news is that, on our way to Europe, an importantly, Ukraine today it is a smoldering crucible of extremely corrupte elite is imbedded and a radical political the modern meltdown. populism feeds our post-Soviet instincts to ask for privileg- Some of the most drastic experiments of modernity — es from the nomenklatura instead of feeling like free citi- inspired by a breathless belief in reason, the inevitability of zens who build our own life conditions for ourselves. progress, and a haughty human emancipation from the But in comparison with the other core ex-Soviet repub- Divine — occurred in Ukraine. The result, among others, lics, Russia and Belarus, the good news is that Ukraine has was a loss of at least 17 million lives: between 1914 and gone down the first part of that path. Though our civil soci- 1945 the unnatural death of one of every two adult men ety is underdeveloped, we have a lot of very active pro- and one of four adult women. democratic NGOs and their networks, which are strong 12 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 No. 34

УКРАЇНСЬКИЙ НАРОДНИЙ СОЮЗ вітає

УКРАЇНУ, ВЕСЬ ЇЇ НАРОД ТА ВСЮ УКРАЇНСЬКУ ГРОМАДУ У СВІТІ з 20-РІЧЧЯМ НЕЗАЛЕЖНОСТИ УКРАЇНИ

БАЖАЄМО ЄДНОСТИ ТА ЛАДУ В ДЕРЖАВІ, МИРУ ТА ДОБРОБУТУ І УСПІХІВ В УТВЕРДЖЕННІ ДЕМОКРАТІЇ.

МНОГАЯ ТА БЛАГАЯ ЛІТА!

За Екзекутивний Комітет УНС: СТЕФАН КАЧАРАЙ – президент No. 34 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 13 14 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 No. 34 No. 34 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 15

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U.S.-Ukraine Foundation interns find their “Ties to Ukraine”

by Roxolana Kozyckyj project has been dubbed “Ties to USUF Ukraine.” Roxolana Kozyckyj, 23, who has com- WASHINGTON – On a typical summer pleted international studies and Russian, morning at the U.S.-Ukraine Foundation in Eastern European, and Central Asian Washington, everyone is busy with his or studies at the University of Wisconsin- her own tasks. Caitlin, Roxy, Yaroslava Madison, and is entering a Master’s in and Francesca, the new summer interns, Public Administration program this fall, are busy with various communications and Francesca Licari, 18, a sophomore tasks such as updating the website, finding studying foreign affairs and Russian and stories to post on the Facebook page and Eastern European studies at the organizing items for the foundation’s peri- University of Virginia, recently joined odic e-newsletter, Update. USUF’s Nadia McConnell and Oksana The U.S.-Ukraine Foundation (USUF), Yakovenko in a meeting with Luis a non-profit that supports democracy, a CdeBaca, ambassador-at-large of the free market and human rights for Ukraine Office to Monitor and Combat in order to build peace and prosperity, also Trafficking in Persons at the U.S. State offers student interns opportunities to work Department, in order to assess the human on larger and more long-term projects, par- trafficking situation in Ukraine. ticipate in meetings and attend Ukraine- More specifically, the Ties to Ukraine related events around Washington. project aims to collect neckties, loose For example, a new initiative for social jewelry, leather items and memorabilia to entrepreneurship that USUF is launching send to Ukraine. Then, women and chil- aims to help combat human trafficking by dren at orphanages at will work with providing job training and sustainable USUF designers to transform these ties and economic opportunities to women and U.S.-Ukraine Foundation interns (from left): Yaroslava Lebeda, Francesca other items into dresses, skirts, scarves, children at-risk of being trafficked. The Licari, Gaitlin Barrett and Roxolana Kozyckyj. fabric jewelry, handbags and accessories. These items will then be sold at a fashion fund-raiser in Ukraine. Caitlin Barrett, 19, a sophomore at Boston University studying international relations with a focus on Europe, and Yaroslava Lebeda, 25, from Boryspil, Ukraine, who attended Northern Virginia Community College and is aspiring to a business administration degree at George Mason University, are involved with a project that will recognize corporate social responsibility efforts by companies that do business in Ukraine. USUF hopes to honor those companies that practice corporate social responsibility at a ceremony in December when a gala will be held in honor of the 20th anniversary of the referendum vote in 1991 that affirmed Ukraine’s declaration of independence. Together, the interns provide an invaluable service to the foundation, helping the daily operations and assisting with the large-scale projects that will continue well after their internships have ended. Learning the way a small but enthusiastic and committed non-profit organization works in the nation’s capital is an opportunity they won’t soon forget. * * * Readers who wish to donate to the Ties to Ukraine fund-raiser may send donations to the U.S.-Ukraine Foundation, 1 Thomas Circle NW, 10th Floor Caplin Mailroom, Washington, DC 20005. Additional information can also be found under “Info” on the Ties to Ukraine Facebook page.

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nation. A Ukraine where every Ukrainian Diaspora leaders... is proud of his Ukrainian heritage, history, language and traditions. (Continued from page 4) It is difficult to imagine that the present president and the government of diate addressing if Ukraine is to find its Ukraine, knowing the history of the way. Russian totalitarian regime and its • The Australian government to do destruction of over 10 million Ukrainian more in engaging with Ukraine. Ukraine people during the Famine-Genocide of needs the international community to 1932-1933, its imprisonment of millions ensure that freedom of speech and press of Ukrainians in the gulag and its destruc- are upheld, that business opportunities tion of Ukraine as a nation, would be are created and protected. The opening of willing to return the people of Ukraine a formal diplomatic Australian post in back to the days of terror and persecu- Kyiv should be an objective. tion. It’s time! Why not use this 20th anni- Ukrainians around the world must versary to act ? Who will do this if I don’t! raise their voices and protest against: the That’s something for all to consider. closing of Ukrainian-language schools, the loss of Ukrainian-language programs Stefan Kaczaraj, president of the on radio and television, the curtailing of Ukrainian National Association: freedom of speech, the violation of an Twenty years ago, Ukraine declared its individual’s human rights, the constant independence from the chains of the harassment of members of the opposition, Soviet-Russian Empire. A few months the illegal detainment of ex-Prime after the Verkhovna Rada’s historic decla- Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko ration of August 24, 1991, over 90 per- and member of the opposition, Yurii cent of Ukrainians, voting in a nation- Lutsenko. Such blatant demonstrations of wide referendum, approved the step taken anti-democratic tendencies will harm by their Parliament. Those were heady Ukraine’s aspirations to join the days, full of euphoria and hope for the European Union. future. Now more than ever, Ukrainians need During the two decades of its renewed to be united – united in thought, deed and independence, Ukraine has had many action. Democratic leaders in Ukraine achievements, chief among them securing must put away their ambitions and work independence without bloodshed. Among together in uniting all Ukrainians from other notable achievements we can site the east to the west. At this time Ukraine these: with the help of the U.S. and other needs a strong leader and a democratic countries, Ukraine voluntarily disposed government that will work for the benefit of its nuclear arsenal; Ukraine participat- of the country and for the people of ed in various operations (humanitarian, Ukraine not the oligarchs. peacekeeping. etc.) under the jurisdiction If the democratic forces do not unite of the U.N., NATO and the European and work together and the people of Union; Ukraine became a member of the Ukraine do not choose a democratic gov- World Trade Organization; and Ukraine ernment in the next election, I do not see succeeded in establishing a vibrant civil the kind of Ukraine for which our forefa- society. thers gave up their lives. Unfortunately, there have been setbacks also, especially the rollbacks of the Marianna Zajac, president of the anti-Ukrainian government under the Ukrainian National Women’s League presidency of Viktor Yanukovych. The of America: Yanukovych administration is emulating On August 19-21, the Lviv Regional the dictatorial government of Russia. Any Council of the Women’s Union of political opposition is being undermined Ukraine (Soyuz Ukrainok Ukrainy) is by arrests and intimidation, pressure is hosting the celebration of the 90th anni- being applied to curtail freedom of versary of its organization’s inception and speech and media freedom, and there is the 20th anniversary of its rebirth in unlawful interference with the work of 1991. Organizations such as the Women’s civic organizations. Union and Plast [Ukrainian Scouting Ukraine’s sovereignty was severely Organization] were “reborn” in 1991 damaged by the Yanukovych administra- after having been declared “illegal” dur- tion when the basing of the Russian ing the previous decades of totalitarian Black Sea Fleet in Ukraine’s Crimea was regimes. extended for decades to come thanks to a The Ukrainian National Women’s bilateral pact that violates the League of America, which was founded Constitution of Ukraine. And, Ukrainian in 1925 to become the voice of the national identity is under serious threat. women of Ukraine, has been able to President Yanukovych denies that the renew its active and open collaborations Holodomor was a genocide directed with the Women’s Union on both cultural against Ukrainians. Soviet holidays are and social welfare projects. This has been promoted, while Ukrainian national cele- a rewarding experience on both organiza- brations are downplayed. The anti-Ukrai- tional and personal levels as we have nian Minister of Education Dmytro been able to form relationships with the Tabachnyk has instituted deleterious union’s leadership and its membership “educational” policies such as rewriting since Ukraine declared its independence. textbooks to please our neighbor and However, most recently, the UNWLA reducing the use of the Ukrainian lan- has found it disheartening but necessary guage in the country’s schools. And I to defend human rights as it had during could go on. the years of the Iron Curtain. We have On this 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s written open letters to the president of independence declaration, there is much Ukraine regarding the downplaying of the to celebrate. But there is also much to tragedy of the Holodomor, the blocking hope for – in particular, that Ukraine will of freedom of rights issues, and the cut in resume its pro-democracy course. the budget of the National University of Kyiv Mohylanska Akademia. Maria Szkambara, president of the A UNWLA delegation is travelling to World Federation of Ukrainian Ukraine to participate in the World Women’s Organizations: Federation of Ukrainian Women’s On the 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s Organizations and the Ukrainian World independence, on behalf of the World Congress annual meetings in addition to Federation of Ukrainian Women’s the Women’s Union of Ukraine event. Organizations, I would like to extend our These gatherings are always exciting and best wishes to the people of Ukraine and productive, and should be even more so ask them not to give up hope. We firmly in 2011, the 20th anniversary of the long- believe that one day there will be a awaited independence of Ukraine. They Ukraine that is an independent, sovereign will be, due to recent events, overcast. 24 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 No. 34

implement for the introduction of a visa- we are overpaying considerable sums, and Ministry’s information policy department, NEWSBRIEFS... free regime for short-term travel for its this certainly affects the level of our bilat- Oleh Voloshyn, said at a briefing on citizens. In November 2010, after the 14th eral relations. Therefore, we’re currently August 16. He said that the celebration (Continued from page 2) EU-Ukraine summit held in Brussels, the conducting work on the revision of the abroad envisaged not only formal recep- sides expressed hope that negotiations on gas supply conditions. It is extremely tions, but also various exhibitions, film Yushchenko’s appeal to not appear in the association agreement and the free important for us, because the outflow of presentations, as well as cultural and art court. Another witness in the abuse of trade area would be completed in 2011. currency from the country is decreasing events. “The main task is to loudly say office case of Yulia Tymoshenko, former (Ukrinform) our foreign exchange reserves,” Mr. what Ukraine has achieved over the 20 Minister of Regional Development and Azarov said. He said that the Ukrainian years of its independence and what goals Construction Vasyl Kuybida, said Ms. More job vacancies, fewer jobseekers economy was still coping with this imbal- it sets,” he said. Mr. Voloshyn also noted Tymoshenko’s directives for talks with ance. “We can endure this imbalance for a that the main attention during the celebra- Russia on gas supply were not secret, KYIV – The number of job vacancies year, a year and a half, or two years, but tions abroad would be paid to the “attrac- were presented at the Cabinet’s meeting in Ukraine grew by almost a third in the we need to reach on agreement,” Mr. tion of more representatives of the estab- on January 19, 2009, and were considered second quarter of 2011, while the number Azarov said. He denied the possibility of a lishment.” The Foreign Affairs Ministry by the Cabinet’s members. Kyiv’s of jobseekers declined by 15 percent. Belarusian scenario in the development of spokesman also said that special expendi- Pechersk District Court on August 5 Most jobseekers are sales managers, stu- Ukraine’s cooperation with Gazprom. tures on the celebration of the 20th anni- arrested the former prime minister during dents and IT employees, according to a “Belarus is walking its own path, and versary of Ukraine’s independence abroad her abuse of office trial after the judge study conducted by the International HR portal hh.ua. The number of job openings Ukraine is walking its own path,” he were not envisaged. “We’re trying to decreed she was guilty of systematically manage with budget funds that were grew by more than half in such spheres as stressed. As reported, Gazprom CEO disrupting court proceedings. (Ukrinform) approved last year for the Foreign Affairs “Operating Personnel” (64 percent), “the Alexei Miller said at a meeting with Ministry,” Mr. Voloshyn said. (Ukrinform) European MPs to visit Ukraine Start of Career and Students” (55 per- Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and Ukrainian Energy and Coal Industry KYIV – A European Parliament dele- cent), “Home Staff” (55 percent), Strong Ukraine merges with PRU “Security” (54 percent), “Medicine and Minister Yurii Boiko that “Gazprom could gation will visit Ukraine on August 18-24 have cooperated with Ukraine in the gas KYIV – The chairman of the ruling to participate in a forum of the Ukraine- Pharmacy” (54 percent), and “Banks, Investment and Leasing” (51 percent). A sector under the same scheme as with Party of Regions of Ukraine (PRU), Prime European Union parliamentary club, Belarus.” In 2004, Russia and Belarus Minister Mykola Azarov, confirmed at a according to Oleh Voloshyn, the director negative trend was demonstrated in such spheres as “Art, Entertainment and signed an agreement under which Belarus news conference on August 16 the inten- of the Foreign Affairs Ministry’s informa- received a discount in the gas price in tion of his party and the Strong Ukraine tion policy department. He noted that the Media” and “Consulting.” These spheres fell in the second quarter of the year by 9 exchange for pipelines that run across party led by Vice Prime Minister Sergey forum would be held in Yalta and that it Belarusian territory and were built during Tigipko to unite. Mr. Azarov predicted the would be attended by 12 MEPs (Members percent and 10 percent, respectively. (Ukrinform) the Soviet era. Russia’s Gazprom is now merger, namely preparation of documents of the European Parliament) from all completing talks on the purchase of and the conduct of party rallies, will take major political groups. “It is very impor- Azarov on relations with Russia Belarusian state company Beltransgaz, some two months. “For the consolidation tant for us that such an organization as the which transits Russian gas to Europe. of society, for the sake of consolidating European Parliament sends the necessary KYIV – Ukrainian-Russian relations (Ukrinform) our efforts, we have taken the initiative to signals to the European Commission and are developing dynamically and have strengthen our party through Strong Population shrinks by 12,100 in June other EU institutions concerning support good prospects, but Ukraine should not Ukraine joining the Party of Regions,” suffer economic losses, Ukrainian Prime for the integration process of our coun- KYIV – Ukraine’s population shrank in Mr. Azarov emphasized. He also said that Minister Mykola Azarov said at a briefing try,” Mr. Voloshyn added. In 2007, June by 0.03 percent, or 12,100 people for the PRU continues to remain open to con- on August 16. “Trade and economic rela- Ukraine and the EU began negotiations on a total of 45.675 million people. solidation of all forces that “stand on the tions [with Russia] should be equal and an association agreement. In early 2008, According to the State Statistics Service, reform agenda.” Mr. Azarov reiterated mutually beneficial, and we should not the parties began negotiating a free trade the urban population stood at 31.378 mil- that the Party of Regions was formed by lose anything on the basis of these rela- area, which should become part of the lion people (a fall of 0.04 percent, or the integration of five political parties. Mr. tions,” Mr. Azarov said. The prime minis- association agreement. Ukraine and the 11,300, compared to May), and the rural Tigipko also described the impending ter noted that, unfortunately, the trade and EU have repeatedly stated their intention population numbered 14.297 million peo- consolidation as “useful” for reforms, for economic balance between Ukraine and to finalize the agreement on the free trade ple (a fall of 0.006 percent, or 800 peo- the country and for both parties. Russia is negative. This was triggered, area by the end of 2011. On November ple.) In 2010, the Ukrainian population According to the polls, as of late July the first and foremost, by a rise in gas prices, 22, 2010, Ukraine and the EU agreed on decreased by 0.4 percent, or 184,400 peo- Party of Regions had 20.3 percent of sup- he said. “Roughly speaking, every month an action plan, which Ukraine should ple, compared to 2009. According to the port among likely voters, compared to Ukrainian census conducted in December only 1.9 percent of supporters for Strong 2001, the population was 48.416 million Ukraine. As many as 14.7 percent of those people, of which 32.538 million people surveyed are ready to back the opposition lived in towns and cities, and 15.878 mil- Batkivschyna party led by Yulia lion in villages. (Ukrinform) Tymoshenko, and another 9.1 percent sup- TO PLACE YOUR AD CALL MARIA OSCISLAWSKI (973) 292-9800 x3040 port the Front for Change led by Arseniy or e-mail [email protected] Independence Day events abroad Yatsenyuk, according to the TNS company. If early parliamentary elections were KYIV – Over 600 events will be held held in Ukraine this summer [the regular abroad on the occasion of the 20th anni- SERVICES PROFESSIONALS elections are scheduled for next fall versary of Ukraine’s independence, the 2012], the Verkhovna Rada would also director of the Ukrainian Foreign Affairs feature a fourth party, the Communists, НІНА БІЛЬЧУК with 3.4 percent of votes. (Ukrinform) Професійний продавець забезпечення УНС Walking across three countries on crutches NINA BILCHUK Licensed Agent KYIV – Sixty-year-old Oleksander Ukrainian National Ass’n., Inc. Mazurenko from Ukraine’s Donetsk 2200 Route 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054 region, who has a Level 2 disability, has Tel.: (973) 292-9800 (Ext. 3025) • Fax: (973) 292-0900 completed his Donetsk-Kyiv walkathon, e-mail: [email protected] completing nearly 2,100 kilometers on his crutches through three countries and dedi- cating it to the 25th anniversary of the Chornobyl accident. He spoke on August 15 at a press conference at Ukrinform, initiated by “Chornobyl-Assistance,” a Ukrainian public organization for disabled EASY LIVING - Within walking dis- persons. “My trek began April 26, 2011, tance to Soyuzivka, this lovely 2,478 passing through the Chornobyl-affected sq.ft. 4BR, 2.5 bath home with attached areas of three countries: Ukraine, Russia and Belarus, and I finished today at the OPPORTUNITIES garage offers a relaxing lifestyle yet is convenient to shopping, golfing, Chornobyl monument in Kyiv,” Mr. Mohonk & Lake Minnewaska. The 1.75 Mazurenko said. He emphasized that his main goal was to pay tribute to the hero- rolling landscaped acres consist of 2 ism of the Chornobyl liquidators, who Earn extra income! separately zoned building lots. Living performed their duty after the Chornobyl The Ukrainian Weekly is looking room features a stone fireplace, hard- accident and are now in need of increased for advertising sales agents. wood floors & beamed ceiling. Multiple medical attention. “These people showed For additional information contact sliding doors lead to 2 expansive true heroism, and now suffer from diseas- Maria Oscislawski, Advertising Manager, decks. Walk-out lower level includes es, poor living conditions and poverty. It The Ukrainian Weekly, 973-292-9800, ext 3040. kitchen, family room, BR & full bath. was very important for me through this Perfect for guest quarters. $263,900. marathon to attract the attention of the Contact David Barnes, Lic. RE Broker/ public, local authorities and the govern- Run your advertisement here, Assoc. (845) 687-4451 ext. 108 or ment,” he explained. Mr. Mazurenko was email: [email protected] asked by an Ukrinform correspondent in The Ukrainian Weekly’s CLASSIFIEDS section. www.flemmingrealty.com (Continued on page 25) 365 No. 34 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 25

world’s five most expensive heads of Expert: ‘third gas war’ a loss for Russia a blatant use of natural gas infrastructure NEWSBRIEFS... state. The publication notes that the opera- as a political weapon,” the expert said. At tions of Chancellor Angela Merkel, for KYIV – Looking at current conditions, (Continued from page 24) the same time, Mr. Honchar did not rule example, cost the German budget $60 for Moscow “it would be difficult to wage out the possibility of a third gas war million a year ($163,000 per day, which is a third gas war” against Ukraine, since it between Russia and Ukraine. “In general, which of the three countries had demon- equivalent to 51 average German sala- would inflict image losses for Russia, as I do not exclude such a scenario,” Mr. strated exemplary social protection for ries); Polish leader Bronislaw well as heavy losses to Gazprom, Honchar said, adding that it might be a Chornobyl emergency workers. Komorowski – $55 million a year Mykhailo Honchar, the director of energy repetition of the scenario in 2006, when “Everywhere – in Russia, Belarus and ($151,000 per day; 136 average salaries); programs at Nomos Center, explained at a the supply of gas to the European Union Ukraine – the social protection is deterio- the leader of Spain, $62 million a year press conference in Kyiv. “If the first [gas was not halted, except in Ukraine. In his rating, the Chornobyl legislation for vic- ($169,000; 63 salaries); the leader of the war in 2006] could still be considered a view, much will depend on the situation in tims is not executed in full, and govern- Czech Republic, $18 million a year one-off event, and the second [in 2009] the fourth quarter of 2011, when Kyiv will ment budgets lack funds for the rehabilita- ($49,000 per day; 35 salaries); the leader spawned many questions in the West, the pay, according to the expert, about $400 tion of contaminated areas,” he explained. of Finland, $34 million a year ($93,000 third will confirm that these disputes have per 1,000 cubic meters of gas. At the same time, Mr. Mazurenko also per day; 22 salaries). The most expensive become an established practice, and this is (Ukrinform) said that he has always received support are the presidents of the U.S., France and and help from ordinary citizens whom he Russia. Thus, Nicolas Sarkozy costs the met. Locals invited him to spend the French budget $161 million ($440,000 per night, shared food, and organized meet- day; 169 salaries) and the presidency of ings with youth and media. Mr. Dmitry Medvedev costs the Russians Oleh Stefan Mazurenko walked on crutches for an $258 million a year ($706,000 per day, average of 25 kilometers per day, about 977 salaries). The most expensive is Vitkovitsky four kilometers an hour. Often he slept in President Barack Obama, whose adminis- his small tent, which he pulled on a bicy- tration costs U.S. taxpayers $1.5 billion a We share the sad news with family and cle-wheeled homemade cart. “I was guid- year, or $4.2 million per day. That sum is friends of the passing of Oleh after ed by strength of mind, will and love for enough to pay the average salary of 1,200 a prolonged illness. Oleh left us on the land and its people,” he concluded, U.S. citizens. (Ukrinform) August 5, 2011, in Agana, Guam where noting that he plans to publish the notes he spent most of his adult life. He was he made in his journal during the trip. Over 17,700 return home in four years This is the third trek for Mr. Mazurenko: buried in Guam on August 12. in 2000 he walked over 1,700 kilometers KYIV – Many Ukrainians who travel abroad in search of better lives eventually Oleh was born on July 27, 1933, in Lviv, Ukraine. He served in the United for 72 days from Luhansk to Uzhhorod; in States Air Force. While in Guam he founded his own family technical repair 2005 he spent 10 months walking along return home, the deputy director of migra- business. He was proud to be a member of the Knights of Columbus and the 5,600 kilometer perimeter of the tion at the State Migration Service of volunteered for many years in the cause of the disabled, including participa- Ukrainian border. (Ukrinform) Ukraine, Oleksander Klets, said at a press conference on August 12. “In the first nine tion in the Special Olympics. Russia’s fleet pays off debts months of last year, 2,600 Ukrainians He was preceded in death by his wife Francisca Borja Vitkovitsky and his returned to their permanent place of resi- parents Roman and Irena Vitkovitsky. KYIV – The companies operated by dence in Ukraine,” he stated. Moreover, He is survived by his children: Nadia Jones, Alexander Vitkovitsky, Ivanna the Russian Black Sea Fleet have fully Mr. Klets added that in 2007 nearly 5,800 paid off a 5.6 million hrv debt to the Beatty, Maj. Roman Vitkovitsky (US Marines), Jeffrey Vitkovitsky, Andriy returned to Ukraine, in 2008 – 5,400, and Vitkovitsky, SSG (US Army), Irena Vitkovitsky MD, Dorothy Muni, Joanne Pension Fund of Ukraine, according to a in 2009 – 3,900, totaling 17,700 people. Messier, Mary Elaine Vitkovitsky and their spouses and children. Oleh is also statement issued by the Procurator’s Mr. Klets also noted that the number of Office of Sevastopol. As a result of the those who go to other countries is survived by his brother Ihor Vitkovitsky, Sisters Zirka Mary Durr and Slawka measures taken, the Construction decreasing, adding that bursts of migra- Pylyshenko and their spouses and children and many relatives in US, Guam, Department of the Russian Black Sea tion are not expected soon. “Today, the Canada, and Ukraine. Fleet has fully paid off debts to the dynamics are stable and we do not foresee Вічна Йому Пам’ять! Pension Fund. “This company was one of an increase in migration processes,” he the largest debtors to the Pension Fund in underscored. (Ukrinform) Sevastopol. Today this debt is fully repaid,” said the procurators. (Ukrinform) Migrant workers send funds to Ukraine Ukraine to send peacekeepers to Cyprus KYIV – Migrant workers transfer around 2 billion Euros to Ukraine every KYIV – The government decided to rec- year, Ella Libanova, the director of the ommend that the president of Ukraine sign Institute of Demography and Social a decree to amend Article 2 of the Studies, told reporters on August 12. She Presidential Decree of September 11, 2009. also noted that the scope of labor migra- The Defense Ministry noted that the decree tion from Ukraine is now stable. opens the legal possibility of implementing “Approximately half of our labor migrants bilateral agreements with the Slovak gov- are working in Russia, and here the ernment to send Ukrainian officers to the migration is reversing, people are coming Slovak military contingent within the back,” Ms. Libanova said. According to United Nations Peacekeeping Force in her, other migrants move to the following Cyprus (UNFICYP). The U.N. Secretariat EU countries: Italy, the Czech Republic, has welcomed the Ukrainian-Slovak agree- Poland, Spain, Greece, Portugal and ment and sent to Ukraine a corresponding Hungary. These countries are major recip- invitation. Sending 12 peacekeepers from ients of a Ukrainian labor force. “If we the armed forces of Ukraine to the U.N. can achieve a simplified visa regime, it peacekeeping force in Cyprus meets the will be good for Ukraine, not only national interests of the state and will because it would facilitate visits for tour- strengthen Ukraine’s contribution to the ism purposes... but [it would] also simpli- collective efforts of the international com- fy the ability for migrants to return,” the munity in maintaining peace in the region. expert emphasized. According to the State In addition, this initiative will contribute to Migration Service, migration flows in and the development of bilateral military coop- out of Ukraine will directly depend on the eration with the Slovak Republic and coop- economic situation in the country. eration with the U.N. in peacekeeping (Ukrinform) activities. As agreed upon with the Slovak side and the U.N. Secretariat, all costs Rada election to cost 1.57 billion hrv associated with providing the service, KYIV – The Central Election accommodation, meals when staying in the Commission of Ukraine approved expens- UNFICYP will be covered by the Slovak es to be included into the budget inquiry side and on the terms provided for the on the program “Holding of Elections of Slovak military. (Ukrinform) National Deputies of Ukraine” into the Yanukovych among most expensive presidents draft state budget of Ukraine for 2012 in the amount of 1.57 billion hrv. The rele- KYIV – President Viktor Yanukovych vant decision was taken by the commis- of Ukraine is one of the most “expensive” sion at its meeting on August 10, presided heads of state in terms of daily operating over by Central Election Commission costs, according to Korrespondent. Chairman Volodymyr Shapoval. On President Yanukovych costs taxpayers $84 February 1, the Verkhovna Rada, through million a year, or about $229,000 per day. the parliamentary majority, amended the This figure is equal to the average month- law so that parliamentary elections are to ly income of 675 Ukrainians. By this indi- be held on the last Sunday of October cator, President Yanukovych is one of the 2012. (Ukrinform) 26 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 No. 34 Delegation of Ukrainian Criminal Court justices visits Boston by Peter T. Woloschuk Oleksandra Hennadiyivna Litvinova, judge, Shevchenkivskiy District Court of BOSTON – A delegation of five Chernivtsi; and Oksana Hryhorivna Ukrainian Criminal Court justices spent Zavydovska-Marchuk, judge, deputy head the second week of July visiting the city of the Civic Cases Chamber, Court of of Boston, observing American judicial Appeals of the Volyn Oblast. procedure, interacting with local judges, The official host for the group visiting meeting with members of the local Boston was Marianne B. Bowler, U.S. Ukrainian community and with the faculty magistrate judge for the District of and staff of the Harvard Ukrainian Massachusetts, who coordinates all visit- Research Institute (HURI), touring the ing groups of foreign judges to the eastern city and its historic sites, shopping and New England region for the federal sys- spending time at the local beaches. tem. In addition to arranging for their The group was one of five similar judi- meetings with various local justices and cial delegations, each composed of five prosecutors during the course of the week, judges, visiting the United States as part Judge Bowler hosted a dinner for the of a program sponsored by the Open group at her home. It should be noted that World Leadership Center of the Library of she was not briefed on the current situa- Congress with coordination for the tion of the court system in Ukraine. group’s visit provided by the In commenting on the visit of the U.S.-Ukraine Foundation (USUF) based Ukrainians, Judge Bowler said, “This pro- in Washington. In addition to Boston, sim- gram provides an opportunity for the ilar groups visited Pennsylvania, New exchange of ideas and the means for Vsevolod Petriv Jersey, South Carolina and Florida. implementing an efficient judicial system. Visiting judges from Ukraine at the clam bake of the Ukrainian American The judges in the Boston group includ- It was very interesting to hear about both Education Center of Boston (from left): Lyubomyr Bytkivskyy, Oleksandra ed Taras Yaroslavovych Bahriy, judge, the differences and similarities of our two Litvinova, Oksana Zavydovska-Marchuk, Taras Bahriy, delegation facilitator Urban District Court of Ternopil; Iryna systems. The benefit of this type of Kateryna Tyminska and Iryna Bondaryeva. Volodymyrivna Bondaryeva, senior con- exchange allows both sides to learn and sultant to the Court, Kharkiv Region exchange ideas.” always of great interest to visiting judges judges in the lower courts and did not Court; Lyubomyr Mykhaylovych “In the federal system,” Judge Bowler because of the efficiency that it brings to have the money to carry the cases further. Bytkivskyy, judge, Bohorodchany District continued, “we are able to showcase our the process of judicial administration.” After the presentations Judge Court in Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast; electronic case-filing system, which is “I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of Bytkivskyy said, “During our meeting the judges’ visit,” Judge Bowler conclud- with the Ukrainian American community ed. “It was a great week, and I intend to of Boston we felt that we were being follow up this visit with one of my own in attacked and that our country was being The judges’ agenda in Boston Ukraine. My husband, Dr. Marc Pfeffer of attacked by the audience and, perhaps, the Harvard Medical School, is doing some of the judges, acting in defense of international research on diabetes and car- our country and our system, made stron- diopulmonary problems and one of the ger statements than were necessary.” site areas for his study is in Ukraine. I plan However, Ukrainian Congress on accompanying him on his next visit.” Committee of America Boston Branch During the course of their week’s stay (UCCA-Boston) Vice-Presidents Zenoviy in Boston, the delegation interacted with Prots and Lyubov Gentyk, both members the local Ukrainian American community of the Fourth Wave of immigrants from four times: at a fund-raising clam bake Ukraine, maintained that the presentation sponsored by the Ukrainian American was nothing short of propaganda and Educational Center of Boston upon their reminded them of the Communist Party arrival on Saturday, at a community meet- presentations they had been forced to ing at Christ the King Ukrainian Catholic attend in Ukraine. parish center the next day, at a visit to the “In Ukraine, judicial corruption is noto- Harvard Ukrainian Research Institute rious and control of the judges by the where they wanted to know how much of president and his party is well document- the institute’s budget was covered by the ed,” Mr. Prots said. “It would be different Ukrainian government, and at a farewell if the judges had been speaking to an reception hosted by the USUF on Friday. audience that didn’t know what was going The lengthiest interaction occurred dur- on in Ukraine, but most of the people who ing Sunday’s community meeting, when attended the session have either recently the judges made a presentation on the cur- come from Ukraine or else maintain close rent state of the legal system in Ukraine to contact with family there and follow some 80 people. Their presentation lasted events closely. The judges fooled no one.” At the John F. Kennedy Library in Boston, U.S. Judge Marianne B. Bowler an hour, and questions and reaction took Wolodymyr Hetmansky, a post-World (center) is seen with Ukrainian judges (from left) Oksana Zavydovska- another hour and a half. The judges War II immigrant and resident of Boston Marchuk, Taras Bahriy, Oleksandra Litvinova, Iryna Bondaryeva and refused to answer many questions, saying and North Port, Fla., reacted to the presen- Lyubomyr Bytkivskyy. that they were politically motivated or tation by saying, “It was calculated to even anti-Ukrainian. mislead and create a false impression. I WASHINGTON – The delegation of Bowler, at the John F. Kennedy Library. They would not discuss the govern- wonder what impression presentations Ukrainian judges hosted in July by the Tom McNaught, executive director of ment’s failure to implement the trial by like this make on people who are not U.S.-Ukraine Foundation as part of a the John F. Kennedy Library jury system, even though it was mandated familiar with what is happening in program sponsored by the Open World Foundation, greeted the Ukrainian by the Constitution of Ukraine. They Ukraine?” Leadership Center of the Library of judges and provided a tour of the refused to deal with questions concerning In spite of the overwhelmingly nega- Congress spent the bulk of their eight extraordinary facility. corruption and political meddling in the tive reaction to the judges’ official presen- days in Boston observing trials and The judges learned about the state of Ukrainian judicial system. They main- tation, members of the Boston community meeting with their judicial peers. legal education in the U.S. by visiting tained that, as judges, they did not take went out of their way to extend hospitali- When they arrived in Washington, the Suffolk University Law School, located stands on political issues or side with ty, and several provided housing for the delegation was welcomed at a reception, in downtown Boston. political parties and insisted that they week that they were in the city. hosted on July 8 by the foundation’s pres- The program concluded with a cere- became judges by studying hard and tak- Although the judges encountered skep- ident, Nadia Komarnyckyj McConnell, mony and reception held at a restaurant ing state exams. ticism and even hostility in Boston and and her husband, Robert McConnell, at located downtown in Boston’s Old City During the course of her presentation, had to deal with questions about how they their home in McLean, Va. Hall. The Ukrainian judges each Judge Zavydovska-Marchuk said, “Much were appointed to the delegation and their The program’s hosting judge in received a certificate of completion and progress has been made in the Ukrainian affiliation with the Party of the Regions, Boston was Marianne B. Bowler, U.S. a keepsake of Boston. The system over the past 20 years. Recent one of their number, Judge Bahriy of magistrate judge of the District of U.S.-Ukraine Foundation also present- polls indicate that approximately 80 per- Ternopil, was vouched for by a member Massachusetts. The Ukrainian judges ed Judge Bowler with an award for her cent of the residents of Ukraine are satis- of the Svoboda Party who is a member of also spent time with judges of the U.S. outstanding leadership in volunteerism fied with the courts. This statistic is also the Ternopil Oblast Council. Speaking by Bankruptcy Court, the 1st Circuit Court in planning the professional program, borne out by the fact that very few appeals telephone from Ukraine he called him a “a of Appeals, the Massachusetts Supreme securing venues and arranging for the are made of verdicts issued in the lower decent man and judge.” Judicial Court and the U.S. Attorney’s many speakers to participate. courts.” There appeared to be less interaction office in that city. Several people in the audience immedi- with the local Ukrainian communities in They witnessed a large U.S. citizen- – Roxolana Kozyckyj, ately commented that the reason there areas visited by other groups of judges, ship ceremony, administered by Judge U.S.-Ukraine Foundation were so few appeals was that the plaintiffs had bankrupted themselves bribing the (Continued on page 27) No. 34 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 27

NOTES ON PEOPLE

Artist recognized for his paintings WASHINGTON — Andrei Kushnir, an artist with American Painting Fine Art, has recently received much recognition for his work. On June 15 Mr. Kushnir was awarded the Juror’s Choice Award in the first biennial Maryland Regional Juried Art Exhibit held by the University of Maryland University College (UMUC) Art Program. He received this award for his painting “Potomac Riverscape,” which will be shown at the UMUC exhibit from August 1 through October 16. The competition was open to all art- ists in Maryland, northern Virginia, and the District of Columbia. On August 10, The Examiner, in its “Baltimore Faith & Culture” section, printed a review of the exhibit at the UMUC , in which Al Zaruba wrote the following about “Potomac Riverscape”: “Potomac Riverscape,” 18-by-36 inches, oil on canvas, by Andrei Kushnir. “A serene peace was beautifully manifested in Andrei Kushnir’s oil on canvas the kind of resonant mirror the burnt and the Shenandoah Valley and many histori- September 11 to October 28 at the ‘Potomac Riverscape.’ This is landscape the cynical are blind to.” cal buildings in Martinsburg. Mr. Dunnegan Gallery of Fine Art in Bolivar, painting at its most conventional and its The Martinsburg Journal (W. Va.) Kushnir’s goal was to paint the beautiful MO. most timeless self. Does it break any newspaper featured Mr. Kushnir in a buildings and depict their natural beauty Mr. Kushnir has been a painter for rules? Gladly, not a one. Instead, this gift- front-page story on June 16. The article, in his art. He managed to do this without over 30 years and his works have been ed painting offers up authentic joy and titled “D.C. artist to feature local build- entering the buildings. exhibited in galleries and museums grace with a sensitive air that appeals and ings,” describes Mr. Kushnir’s current On July 1 Mr. Kushnir’s painting throughout the United States. He is an reveals the hunger in our own souls. It is project of creating a series of paintings of “Battery Kemble Park” was selected for elected member of the Salmagundi Club “Best of America,” a juried exhibit by the of New York City, Washington Society of National Oil and Acrylic Painters Society. Landscape Painters, National Oil and to the U.S. to experience American-style The painting is a 16-by-20-inch oil of a Acrylic Painters Society and Oil Painters democracy, civil society and community park in Washington. It was one of 82 of America. Delegation... paintings selected out of 600 entries for His work is in the current exhibition (Continued from page 26) life. The delegates are home-hosted by volunteers in local communities. Open the Society’s 21st annual Juried Exhibit. “Historic Washington, D.C.,” at World is active in Russia, Ukraine, The exhibit will be on view from American Painting Fine Art. based on reports from New Jersey carried Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, by the Burlington County Post and philly- Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan and burbs.com and a report from Pennsylvania Turkmenistan. published in the Reading Eagle. This program provides unique opportu- In speaking with their American hosts Gerdan artist appears on jewelry TV show nities for the Eurasian visitors to observe in New Jersey, Judge Oleksandr V. and experience American political, busi- Andriyanov said, “What we saw was glo- TORONTO – On June 26, Maria ness and community life firsthand, as they Rypan appeared live on “The Jewelry rious. U.S. citizens have access to fair meet their professional counterparts, take and unbiased judges in a system based Connection” talk show with Mona Hair part in cultural events, homestays and regarding her beadwork. upon law.” other activities arranged by local organi- Judge Serhiy Pakhut, chief judge of a Ms. Rypan is known internationally as zations. It is the only citizen diplomacy an artist, instructor, lecturer and historian regional district court, noted that the program funded by the legislative branch Ukrainian legal system is based on a on “gerdany.” of the U.S. government. The program is The interview was an hour long and French, not English model. However, operated by the Open World Leadership what impressed him most about his visit touched upon different subjects that influ- Center (OWLC) housed at the U.S. ence her beadwork, specifically Ukrainian to the United States was the arrival of an Library of Congress. ice cream truck on Long Beach Island, people and events throughout history. Since its founding by Congress in It focused on Ms. Rypan’s skill in the [N.J.] streets. “The ice cream comes right 1999, the Open World Program has to you — and the bell ringing to tell you Ukrainian beading style called “gerdan.” enabled over 6,000 American host fami- A gerdan is a small-beaded necklace that he’s there. How amazing!” said Judge lies and their communities in all 50 states has a loop-like shape. The necklaces Pakhut. “I will definitely remember this!” to play an active role on this ambitious vary in size, shape, length, color and The group of Ukrainian judges visiting public diplomacy effort. By hosting dele- pattern. Reading, Pa., expressed shock at the polit- gates from Eurasian countries in their In the interview, Ms. Rypan discussed ical influence on the U.S. Supreme Court communities and homes, they have direct- the different kinds of Ukrainian influence and on American courts in general, and ly impacted more than 17,000 current and present in her work, an example being maintained that the Ukrainian legal sys- future Eurasian leaders and made lasting Iryna Senyk and the “White Aster of Maria Rypan tem was the best in the world. partnerships that have brought many ben- Love” book project of 1989-1992, which “Is there a plan to change that a judge efits to both parties. was a special project that promoted the sequent road trips to promote it. I’ve is selected by a political party?” Judge The U.S.-Ukraine Foundation is based poetry and embroidery of the late Ms. summarized this project in a ‘photo Anatoliy Polyanskyy, 47, of a regional in Washington and has cooperated with Senyk. album’ PowerPoint.” court, asked through an interpreter. the Open World Leadership Program in Ms. Rypan says on her website: “I was The interview was filled with interest- The issue of Supreme Court justices arranging programs and providing logis- the designer of 27 embroidered fashion ing discussions and photos of Ms. being appointed by the politically elected tics and support for groups from Ukraine. outfits from her sketches; designer and Rypan’s beadwork. A video of the inter- president was particularly vexing to Mr. The USUF is a non-profit, non-govern- editor of the deluxe bilingual book of view is archived online on http://www. Polyanskyy, who wondered how the jus- mental organization (NGO) established in poetry and fashion sketches; producer of ustream.tv/channel/the-jewelry-connec- tices are able to sever all bias toward the 1991 to facilitate democratic develop- a multimedia Première to launch Iryna tion under the title “Maria Rypan political party that supported them. ment, encourage free market reform and Senyk’s ‘White Aster of Love’ in 1992 Interview.” Ms. Rypan’s website is locat- “In Ukraine,” he said, “judges are not enhance human rights in Ukraine. The and repackaged the presentation for sub- ed at www.rypandesigns.com. appointed by political parties, but instead foundation creates and sustains channels take examinations to ensure they are free of communication between the United of political bias.” States and Ukraine for the purpose of “Notes on people” is a feature geared toward reporting on the achieve- It was very interesting and shocking,” building peace and prosperity through said Judge Pavlo Cheberyak, who pre- shared democratic values. The USUF is ments of members of the Ukrainian community and the Ukrainian sides over a Kyiv economic court. dedicated to strengthening the mutual National Association. All submissions should be concise due to space The Open World (OW) Leadership objectives of both nations while advanc- limitations and must include the person’s UNA branch number (if appli- Program is an international professional ing Ukraine as a cornerstone of regional cable). Items will be published as soon as possible after their receipt. exchange program that brings small dele- stability and as a full partner in the com- gations of emerging leaders from Eurasia munity of nations. 28 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 No. 34

Ukrainian Canadian Congress makes submission BACK TO SCHOOL to government consultations on immigration OTTAWA – The Ukrainian Canadian who were members of the NKVD, KGB SPECIAL: Congress has released its submission to or their military intelligence equivalents, the government of Canada’s consultations regardless of rank or duties, should not be A subscription to The Ukrainian Weekly! on immigration and urged the Ukrainian allowed admission into Canada. Canadian community to participate wide- “Canada is facing demographic chal- Give the college students in your family their own nine- ly in the consultations. lenges, and we must collaborate to month gift subscription to The Ukrainian Weekly. The Weekly “The story of Ukrainian immigration address the demographic challenge which to Canada is marking its 120th anniversa- can, potentially, undermine our growth is a great resource for students who plan to write college papers ry this year. There are many portraits of potential,” said UCC Immigration on topics about Ukraine, helps students keep in touch with the success, struggles and fortitude that Committee Co-Chair Ewhen Duvalko. the Ukrainian community throughout the United States and fill Canada’s Ukrainian-Canadian histo- “The vast majority of immigrants who Canada, and gives students the opportunity to keep learn- ry,” stated Ukrainian Canadian Congress come to Canada from Ukraine find suc- ing about their Ukrainian heritage once they leave home. President Paul Grod. “The Ukrainian cess through hard work and by contribut- community has helped to build this coun- ing to building the communities in which The subscription rate for the academic year is only $50 ($40 if try and we must work to ensure that a they live and work. Canada’s economic the student is a member of the UNA). balanced approach among diverse ethnic- future requires an increase in our immi- ities is included in Canada’s future immigration rates.” To take advantage of this special offer, just fill out the form gration plan.” More information about the govern- below and mail it with a check to: The Ukrainian Weekly, Specific recommendations from the ment’s consultations is available on the UCC report include: Citizenship and Immigration Canada web- 2200 Route 10, PO Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054. Or, phone The Ukrainian Canadian community site. Groups interested in participating The Weekly’s Subscription Department at (973) 292-9800, ext. believes that Canada should expand its may sign up online at: www.cic.gc.ca/eng- 3042, and charge the subscription to your credit card. immigration target from 0.8 to 1 per cent lish/department/consultations/index.asp. of the total population. “The Ukrainian community is willing There is support for a 25 percent to assist Citizenship and Immigration increase in immigration levels from Canada with the development of ways to STUDENT’S NAME: ______NAM E: (please type or print) Ukraine and an increase in staffing levels implement the abovementioned recom- at the Canadian Embassy in Ukraine. mendations by providing necessary logis- COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: ______Official language requirements for tical and implementation support,” stated immigrants serve as an unnecessary barri- UCC Immigration Committee Co-Chair ADDRESS: ______er to skilled immigrants and should be Serhiy Koroliuk. “We believe that many removed. of our community organizations and indi- The temporary resident visa require- viduals can and will share their experi- CITY: ______STATE: ______ZIP CODE: ______ment for citizens of Ukraine to visit ence and expertise to provide and main- Canada should be abolished. tain a reliable support system for new- PHONE (optional): ______Full Canadian consular offices should comers to Canada in the areas of immi- be opened in Kharkiv and Lviv, Ukraine. gration, settlement, integration and reten- o UNA member subscription price — $40/acad.yr. o Non-member subscription price — $50/acad.yr. The Immigration and Refugee tion.” Protection Act should be upheld to ensure The UCC submission on Immigration UNA Branch number ______that all individuals, regardless of ethnic may be viewed at www.ucc.ca by click- origin, who have engaged in espionage ing on “UCC Submits Position on against Canada and its NATO allies or Immigration to Canadian Government.” No. 34 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 29 30 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 No. 34

weeks. To understand Ukraine today it is Connecticut State Ukrainian Day Experts on Ukraine... important to look back to 1991 and view things with a global, comparative context. (Continued from page 8) Anyone who remembers what mass to be celebrated in September media was like in Soviet Ukraine cannot social, ethnic or religious – for a full 20 help but admit how much has changed. years. by Donald K. Horbaty Innesa Tymochko, sisters Pavlishyn duo, During the early chaotic freedom of the This is an accomplishment without Oros sisters duo, Korenovsky sisters duo, President Leonid Kravchuk’s administra- precedent in all of Ukrainian history. STAMFORD, Conn. – The singer Andreya Popovici, Zorepad tion, restrictions were lifted, yet there was Connecticut State Ukrainian Day ensemble, Kalynonka Dance Ensemble, (Those who disagree are kindly requested no money and little expertise to build a Committee will be sponsoring its 44th Barvinok Dance Ensemble, and singer/ to name another 20-year period when an healthy, democratic media system. Ukrainian Day Festival on Sunday, songwriter Liliya Ostapenko. The master independent state with the capital on the President Leonid Kuchma introduced a September 11 on the grounds of St. and mistress of ceremonies are Roman territory of today’s Ukraine enjoyed peace massive privatization drive that extended Basil’s Seminary, Glenbrook Road, and Olena Stanislavaskyy. The at home and abroad.) to the media sector. Yet privatization did Stamford, Conn. “Halychany” band will provide music for Somebody surely deserves thanks for not lead to free speech. In less than a The events begin at 9 a.m. The outdoor dancing after the program. this. As for those born in 1991, the first decade most of Ukraine’s media ended up Ukrainian arts and crafts bazaar will fea- The festival continues because of the generation to have reached adulthood in in the hands of powerful businessmen, ture over 20 vendors who offer a kaleido- support of people from the 10 sponsoring an independent Ukraine, we congratulate popularly known as oligarchs, who have scope of Ukrainian souvenirs – ceramics, Ukrainian Catholic parishes of them and wish them and their younger close relations with political elites. These wood, shirts, books, paintings, pysanky, Connecticut. sisters and brothers all the best. They private media outlets worked hand in embroidery, tapes, CDs, novelties and The Connecticut State Ukrainian Day have a very tough job before them, but hand with the state censoring the news more. Coffee and donuts are also avail- Committee has raised over $500,000 they can become the luckiest generation during the late Kuchma era. The Orange in Ukrainian history. able at this time. Priests will be available since its inception. Last year over Revolution blew the lid off state censor- to hear confessions before 11 a.m., when $13,000 was raised and donated mostly ship, and the Viktor Yushchenko presiden- Marta Dyczok, D.Phil. (University of a Pontifical divine liturgy will be cele- to the seminary and balance to various cy is remembered as a period of renewed Oxford), is associate professor of histo- brated by Bishop Paul Chomnycky of the charities within the Eparchy of Stamford. free speech. Yet media watchers pointed ry and political science at the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Stamford. Entrance to the Festival, which to the fact that economic pressures pre- University of Western Ontario; fellow, Throughout the day, guests can sample includes free parking, is $10 (for all ages sented a new kind of threat to free speech. Petro Jacyk Program for the Study of Ukrainian specialties and picnic food. 12 and over) at the gate and $5 for In many ways Ukraine’s media system Ukraine, University of Toronto; adjunct There will be a moon walk and games for advance tickets, which can be purchased has followed global patterns: concentra- professor, National University of the tion of media ownership, close links children. In the afternoon, visitors can by contacting Marian Kozanski at the Kyiv Mohyla Academy. She has pub- enjoy a lively program at the outdoor Seminary, 203-324-4578. The festival between political and economic elites, lished three books, including “Media, market factors dominating media content pavilion that will feature the “Zolotyi will be held rain or shine. For more infor- Democracy and Freedom: The Post Promin” Dance Ensemble, violinist mation readers may call 203-269-5909. with infotainment being the norm, the Communist Experience” (2009, with Internet revolution, an explosion of new, Oxana Gaman-Golutvina), and is in social media. Kyiv for the summer on a research trip: Where Ukraine is different is that it is It’s hard to find much celebratory spirit run by a post-Soviet elite, and the entire Annual Ukrainian Festival in Kyiv as the country approaches its 20th country is still very much a work in prog- birthday. “[Viktor] Yanukovych even can- ress that has to deal with Russia’s neo- to be held in Newtown celled the parade,” many people are say- imperialist behavior. Russian media prod- ing. Foreign observers are concerned uct continues to have a heavy presence in by Gloria P. Horbaty p.m. It will consist of folk dances per- about the politically motivated former Ukraine’s media space, and this is doubt- formed by the Kolononka Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko’s trial lessly contributing to the general feeling NEWTOWN, Conn. – The 36th annu- Dance Group of Stamford, and and arrest. Even the weather does not of malaise. al Ukrainian Festival will be held on Ukrainian songs performed by Gregory seem to be cooperating – there has been Yet if we broaden our lens and consid- Sunday, August 28, at the Paproski Kylinskyj, Mykola Maksymiuk, Anatolij as much rain as sunshine this summer. er that the U.S. came to the brink of Christmas Tree Farm, 5 Hattertown Krytej and by the Korenovsky sisters This seems to be true of Ukraine’s default this month, London was rocked by Road, Newtown, Conn. duo. recent history. On balance, there has been violent riots, many European economies The events begin at 11 a.m. with the There will also be an exhibit of as much bad as good, and mass media is a are teetering, there is continued violence divine liturgy celebrated by the Rt. Rev. Ukrainian arts and crafts, coordinated by good example of this. On the one hand in the Middle East, and Russia has long Archpriest Mihai Dubovici, pastor of the Gloria and Chrystyna Horbaty, and there are continued concerns over free- ago lost any semblance of democracy, Protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian articles for sale. Other activi- dom of speech, yet the Tymoshenko trial things in Ukraine may start looking a bit Ukrainian Catholic Church of ties throughout the day will include vol- was broadcast live on television for a few less bleak. Bridgeport, Conn. The church choir will leyball and horseshoe tournaments, hay sing the responses. rides, pony rides, a petting zoo, moon Ukrainian food – varenyky, holubtsi, walk, chess and a varenyky-eating con- the middle course between the failed kovas and kapusta – made by the parish test, organized by Stephen and Diana Turning the pages... Communists and the opposition. In the women under the direction of Taras Paproski. days following the declaration of (Continued from page 6) Slevinsky and Yaroslava Kovach, will be Admission is $2.00. There is plenty Ukraine’s independence, Mr. Kravchuk available for purchase along with picnic- of free off-street parking. For informa- was also seen as playing to the electorate Party of the Soviet Union and the style food. tion, readers may call Gloria P. Horbaty, ahead of the December 1, 1991, presiden- Politburo and Central Committee of the A lively program, organized by 203-269-5909 or Mr. Paproski, 203-426- tial elections and national referendum on Communist Party of Ukraine. The session Roman Stanislawsky, will begin at 2:30 5487. independence that would define the newly was organized by the National Council, emerging relationship between Russia and the parliamentary opposition, which gath- Ukraine. ity, and we will continue to take an ered the 150 signatures required for an Ukraine’s ambassador... active part in joint efforts of world com- extraordinary session of Parliament. Source: “Kravchuk and the coup,” by munity to this end. But Mr. Kravchuk’s statements and Dr. Roman Solchanyk (RFE/RL Research (Continued from page 6) Institute), The Ukrainian Weekly, 5. Ukraine strives to maintain rela- behavior after the failed coup showed the confusion of a leader who chose to steer September 1, 1991. implementation of our bilateral agree- tions of friendship and constructive, ments in this area. Successful fulfill- mutually beneficial cooperation with all ment by the American side of its part of countries. At the same time, Ukraine has these obligations will provide our scien- clearly determined its foreign policy pri- tists with a new, safe source of radiation orities, namely: for fundamental physical research. (a) Integration into the European 3. Ukraine has being solving all Union – Ukraine and the European boundary issues with neighboring coun- Union are finalizing negotiations on an tries in a friendly and peaceful way. This Association Agreement, including estab- process is peaceful, based on interna- lishment of a Deep and Comprehensive tional law, and has being resulting in Free Trade Area (DCFTA). I sincerely relevant bilateral agreements. Thus, at hope that the final text of the relevant present we have good relations with all agreement will be agreed upon by the neighboring states. And this stand end of 2011. This October, President of should be clearly understood as another Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych is to meet contribution of Ukraine to regional President of the European Commission security and stability. Jose Manuel Barroso in order to discuss 4. During the years of its indepen- this issue at the highest political level. dence Ukraine has participated in almost (b) Strategic partnership with the all international peace making, peace United States – while heading toward keeping and humanitarian operations our historical European home, we regard under the auspices of the U.N., NATO our cooperation with the United States and the EU. We are convinced that as a truly strategic and integral part of world security is a common responsibil- our foreign relations. No. 34 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 31

August 26 Beach volleyball tournament, Ukrainian Sports Federation August 28 Commemoration, 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s Wildwood, NJ of the U.S.A. and Canada, beach near Pan American Hotel, Miami independence, Ukrainian Catholic Church, 954-536-2231 www.socceragnecy.net/lys September 1 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence Day banquet, August 26- Film screening, “The Whistleblower” by Larysa Kondracki, Montreal Ukrainian Canadian Congress – Montreal branch, September 1 ByTowne Theater, www.whistleblower-movie.com Ukrainian Youth Home, 514-725-0812 or 514-259-7162 Ottawa August 26-28 Uketoberfest, St. Joseph the Betrothed Ukrainian Catholic September 2-4 36th annual Ukrainian Festival, House of Ukraine, Balboa Chicago Church, [email protected] San Diego Park, www.houseofukraine.com or 760-689-2852

August 26- Art exhibit, featuring works by Marita and Valeriy Vaskov, September 3-5 Tennis tournament and swim meet, Ukrainian Sports September 18 Ukrainian National Museum, 312-421-8020 Kerhonkson, NY Federation of the U.S.A. and Canada, hosted by the Chicago Carpathian Ski Club (KLK), Soyuzivka Heritage Center, August 28 Ukrainian Day concert, Ukrainian American Coordinating www.soyuzivka.com San Francisco Council of Northern California, Golden Gate Park, www.stmichaeluocsf.org or 415-330-0905 September 3-5 Kozak tournament, Ukrainian American Youth Association Baraboo, WI – Chicago Branch, UAYA resort 773-486-4204 August 28 Celebration, 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence, Edmonton, AB Ukrainian Youth Unity Complex, 780-478-4881 September 4 Labor Day barbecue picnic with Cossacks, featuring live Buena, NJ acts, music and guided museum tour, New Kuban Free August 28 Ukrainian picnic, Holy Protection of the Blessed Virgin Cossack Community and Cultural Center, 856-697-2255 or Newtown, CT Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, Paproski’s Christmas 609-356-0165 Tree Farm, 203-269-5909 or 203-426-5487 August 28 Celebration, 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence, Bridgeville, PA Pittsburgh Ukrainian Community, Alpine Club, 412-343-0309 Entries in “Out and About” are listed free of charge. Priority is given to events advertised in The Ukrainian Weekly. However, we also welcome submissions August 28 Summer picnic, North Anthracite Council – League of from all our readers. Items will be published at the discretion of the editors Berwick, PA Ukrainian Catholics, Ezzyj’s Farm, 570-822-5354 and as space allows. Please send e-mail to [email protected]. 32 THE UKRAINIAN WEEKLY SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2011 No. 34

PREVIEW OF EVENTS

Sunday, August 28 of Chicago Avenue. Festival hours: Saturday, 1-11 p.m., with indoor and outdoor zabavy, both starting at 9 p.m.; ROCHESTER, N.Y.: The United Ukrainian American Sunday, 1-10 p.m., with an outdoor zabava under the big Organizations of Rochester, N.Y., the Rochester branch of tent and non-stop stage activity featuring the Hromovytsia the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America and the dance ensemble, with their Blyskavytsia School of 216 Foordmore Road Rochester Ukrainian Group Inc. are co-sponsoring a 20th 1-845-626-5641 Ukrainian Ballet, the Ukraina dance ensemble and other P.O. Box 529 anniversary celebration of Ukraine’s independence at 3 local dance groups. The festival also features street vendors Kerhonkson, NY 12446 [email protected] p.m. beside the Ukrainian monument at Centennial Park, with arts and crafts from all over North America, local eth- Irondequoit Town Hall, 1280 Titus Ave. The program will nic cuisine, children’s games and rides, Bingo with prizes, open with the American and the Ukrainian national August 26-28 and a grand lottery with a first prize drawing of $2,500. anthems, and a common prayer. Also on the program: the Kozak Family art exhibit - Soyuzivka Library Festival entrance fee is $5 per day for all age 13 and older. proclamation of Ukrainian Day, remarks by the Rev. For information on being a vendor, contact the parish office Labor day week - August 28 - September 5 Roman Sydorovych and Dr. Christine Hoshowsky, poetry at 312-829-5209 or [email protected]. Sunday to Wednesday - recitation, local vocalists and a performance by Oleh Chmyr, world-renowned baritone. Admission is free. Thursday, September 15 our August special is still on - most rooms Donations are welcome. $75 - breakfast included WASHINGTON: The Ukrainian Congress Committee of Thursday, September 8 America (UCCA), in co-sponsorship with the Wednesday - NEWARK, N.J.: St, John’s Ukrainian Preschool will Congressional Ukrainian Caucus, will hold the 20th anni- Kozak night dinner - Ukrainian evening reopen with Ukrainian-language Montessori sessions each versary commemoration of Ukrainian Independence Day on Thursday - weekday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Extended hours from Capitol Hill at noon-4 p.m. The event will feature a formal luncheon at 12:30-2 p.m. with a presentation of special DJ Thursday on the Tiki Deck 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. are available to serve working parents. Minimum age for children to be enrolled is 2 years, 6 awards to members of Congress for their role and support Friday - months by September. We emphasize respect for the child, in helping to achieve and sustain Ukraine’s independence. Mini Golf Tournament during the day - individualized learning and promotion of the child’s inde- Afterwards, a panel discussion on “Ukraine’s Odesa Night Dinner - in the evening Zabava pendence. For more information call Olenka Makarushka- Independence: Perspectives – Past, Present, and Future” Kolodiy, 973-763-1797. will be held with various governmental and non-govern- with Klooch at 10 pm mental officials leading the dialogue. The Ukrainian com- Saturday - Saturday-Sunday, September 10-11: munity from throughout the U.S. is invited to attend, as Evening Zabava with Tempo 10 pm CHICAGO: Ss. Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic well as to inform their representatives in Congress about Church will host the parish’s ninth annual “Ukrainian the event and request their participation. Further informa- Sunday - Village Fest 2011” on the parish grounds, located in the tion and details of the event will be provided in forthcom- Divine Liturgies - Catholic at Holy Trinity heart of the Ukrainian Village at 739 N. Oakley Blvd., at ing weeks. Information is available from the Ukrainian Church at 8:30 am & 10 am Orthodox at St the corner of Oakley and Superior streets, one block south National Information Service, 202-547-0018. Volodymyr Chapel at 10 am. Evening concert with Syzokryli Dance PREVIEW OF EVENTS GUIDELINES Group and Zabava with Zahrava at 10 pm Preview of Events is a listing of community events open to the public. It is a service provided at minimal cost ($20 per Sept 11 - listing) by The Ukrainian Weekly to the Ukrainian community. UNWLA Br 95 - 20th Anniversary Luncheon To have an event listed in Preview of Events please send information, in English, written in Preview format, i.e., Sept 11-15 - in a brief paragraph that includes the date, place, type of event, sponsor, admission, full names of persons and/or Reunions - Bayreuth, Berchtesgaden, organizations involved, and a phone number to be published for readers who may require additional information. Items should be no more than 100 words long. Karlsfeld, Landshut, Regensburg Information should be sent to: [email protected] or Preview of Events, The Ukrainian Weekly, 2200 Route Sept 19-21 - 10, P.O. Box 280, Parsippany, NJ 07054; fax, 973-644-9510. NB: If e-mailing, please do not send items as Reunions - Mittenwald and Salzburg attachments; simply type the text into the body of the e-mail message.