Today we join with Ukrainians in Ontario and all over the world to celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day.
Following the fall of the Soviet Union, the parliament of Ukraine adopted their declaration of independence on August 24, 1991, and that December 1, the people of Ukraine reclaimed their independence in a widely supported referendum. It marked the end of Soviet control over Ukraine and the beginning of a new dawn in Eastern Europe.
Ukrainians have been a part of the Canadian story for over a century, and today Ontario is home to a strong and vibrant Ukrainian community.
While this year’s celebrations will be unlike previous year’s celebrations, we look forward to the celebrating when they can once again don their vyshyvanky shirts and honour the unity and heritage of Ukrainians all over the world.
On behalf of the Ontario Liberal Party, and myself, I extend my best wishes to all those celebrating Ukrainian Independence Day.
“Slava Ukraini!”