THE Ukrainian community in Donegal marked the 35th anniversary of the restoration of Ukraine’s independence in Letterkenny Central Library with an official opening of a new Ukrainian Bookshelf.
The event took place on August 24, and was organised by Ukrainian Voice in Donegal and Ukrainian Cultural centre in Ireland, in cooperation with Letterkenny Central Library and community partners. It brought together members of the Ukrainian and Irish communities, representatives of local authorities, voluntary organisations and community groups to celebrate.
The celebration opened with the national anthems of Ukraine and Ireland, followed by a minute’s silence in memory of all those who have lost their lives defending Ukraine’s freedom and independence.
Both communities coming together to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the restoration of Ukraine’s independence.
One of the most significant moments of the event was the opening of the Ukrainian Bookshelf. Ukrainian literature now has a permanent place within Letterkenny Central Library, giving readers an opportunity to discover books in the Ukrainian language and learn more about Ukraine’s history, culture and literary heritage.
A special part of the programme was a presentation by Nataliia Korniienko, Director of the Ukrainian Cultural Centre in Ireland, who spoke about the books on the shelf and the importance of Ukrainian literature outside Ukraine.
She highlighted the power of the Ukrainian word as a way of preserving language, cultural identity and historical memory, passing them on to future generations and introducing Irish readers to Ukraine.
“Every book on the shelf represents more than a literary work. It carries a piece of Ukrainian history, the voice of its people and a bridge between Ukraine and Ireland.”
Some of the fabulous speakers that shared words at the event
The celebration was also attended by Father Oleksii, a priest of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, who shared this important day with the community and offered wishes for peace, victory and prosperity for Ukraine, and strength, unity and hope for its people.
One of the most moving moments of the celebration came from Eamonn Brennan, Director of Donegal Volunteer Centre, who wrote and performed a heartfelt poem especially for the Ukrainian community to mark the 35th anniversary.
His words were a sincere expression of friendship, solidarity and support for the Ukrainian
people. For those present, it was a deeply touching moment and served as a reminder that support can be expressed not only through speeches, but also through poetry written from the heart.
The celebration continued with a programme of Ukrainian music, songs, poetry and performances by talented Ukrainian children and adults.
The event had some brillant muscial performances.
The organisers expressed their sincere gratitude to Letterkenny Central Library, local authorities, volunteers, partners and all those who attended and supported this special occasion.
The opening of the Ukrainian Bookshelf was much more than a cultural event. It became a symbol that Ukraine continues to live, speak and be present in Ireland. Ukrainian books now have a home in Letterkenny and have created another bridge of friendship between the people of Ukraine and Ireland.