On a solemn day, Ukrainians across the globe lit candles to remember the millions of innocent victims of the Holodomor, a man-made famine orchestrated by the Soviet regime against Ukraine. This tragic event, a punishment for the Ukrainian people’s aspiration for independence, continues to cast a long shadow over the nation’s history.
In Wales, Ukrainians, including members of Sunflowers Wales, gathered at the Senedd Cymru in Cardiff to honour the victims. The commemoration was opened by Alun Davies MS, Member of the Senedd, and featured a heartfelt video address by the First Minister, the Rt Hon Eluned Morgan MS. It was a poignant moment as Wales reaffirmed its unwavering support for Ukraine in its ongoing struggle against Russian aggression.
Together with Ukrainian Greek-Catholic priest Fr Taras Boichuk and Roman Catholic Archbishop Mark O’Toole, attendees prayed for the victims of the Holodomor and for the Ukrainian soldiers and civilians who continue to sacrifice their lives in the fight for freedom.
Distinguished guests, including Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies MS, Iryna Terlecky OBE, a board member of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain (AUGB), and Deputy Ambassador of Ukraine Eduard Fesko, joined the commemoration. Mick Antoniw MS, Counsel General for Wales, recited a poignant poem about the Holodomor in Ukrainian.
Nick Wysoczanskyj from the Welsh Refugee Council shared a personal story about his grandfather, a Ukrainian refugee after World War II. Nick’s words echoed the sentiment that Wales, a small nation with a big heart, stands firmly with Ukraine.
The commemoration was filled with emotional moments, as each speaker concluded their remarks with the powerful words, “Slava Ukraini!” – Glory to Ukraine! The soulful melodies of the bandura, played by the Kalianova sisters, and the heartfelt songs of the Singing Circle Cardiff added to the somber atmosphere.
A minute of silence was observed, uniting those present with the Ukrainian people in a shared moment of reflection and remembrance. The event concluded with the singing of the Welsh and Ukrainian national anthems, a symbol of solidarity between the two nations.
This day of remembrance was a testament to the enduring spirit of the Ukrainian people and the unwavering support of the Welsh nation. As we honour the victims of the Holodomor, let us also pledge to continue our fight for justice, freedom, and peace.
