A march to mark the 31st Ukrainian Independence day took place in the city yesterday afternoon with a large turnout to both celebrate the day and to discuss the Russian invasion of the country.
Organised by Artem Kvashyn, Daria Kvashyna, Olga Kozhucmar, Olena Bratchenko and Olexandra Turova, the march started in Eyre Square, led by the coordinators and Deputy Mayor, Cllr. Mike Cubbard. They walked down Shop Street, chanting and singing in Ukrainian along the way. The march concluded at Spanish Arch, where the organisers gave speeches in both English and Ukrainian.
One coordinator, Daria Kvashyna, spoke warmly about the welcome Ukrainians had received from Irish people. In her speech, translated by Olena Bratchenko, she said, "We would like to thank Irelannd for its true support and resistance, for sheltering more than 50,000 Ukrainian refugees."
"We are grateful for the hospitality of the Irish people, who have given the most comfortable living conditions for us and support."
Daria lamented that this is not like normal Independence Days for Ukrainians, who would normally celebrate with parties and barbecues, instead a large number of celebrants were far away from their homes, seeking shelter in Galway.
Deputy Mayor, Cllr. Mike Cubbard said, "It was quite moving, the reception coming down through Shop Street and Quay Street, the welcome the people of Galway have for the Ukranian community. People all stood and applauded, you could see tears nearly. Quite a number actually joined in on the march. It just shows the solidarity between us very clearly.
"We're well used to fighting for our own independence here and Ukraine have had independence for the last thirty one years, but the last six months haven't felt that way."
Olena Bratchenko said that in her eyes, this is not the first Independence day since the war started, as she views the conflict having began in 2014 with the invasion of Crimea. Olena, who lived in nearby Donetsk came to Ireland because, "Irish people are most like Ukrainian people. We have the same temper, the same character, so kind, because if you come to our country you will see how hospitable we are."
While down in Spanish Arch, children in the crowds came forward to sing traditional songs and tell stories. When the Ukrainian National Anthem played, there were tears among the crowd, with many crying and hugging each other in support.
Speeches from attendees about the move to Ireland and how the war impacted them elicited more emotion from the crowd, but when Cllr.
Cubbard gave his speech saying, "I think what today will do in towns, cities and villages around the world is show when people march with Ukrainian people, it sends a very strong message that we stand shoulder to shoulder with you," cheers erupted from those gathering.
He went on to add, "On my behalf and on behalf of the people of Galway, you have my love today on your Independence Day. We also send our love back to Ukraine, to your family, to your friends and to your communities. Much love from Galway." BY RÓISÍN KILROY
