On Friday morning to mark the Independence Day of Ukraine on 24 August there will be a wreath laying ceremony at the City Chambers in Edinburgh.
The event will be led by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge, who will be joined by First Minister John Swinney and Minister for Equalities, Kaukab Stewart.
This will be a short ceremony. Members of the Ukrainian community will come together to commemorate those who have been killed in the most recent conflict. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the anniversary of signing the Declaration of Independence in 1991.
PERTH TO HOST CELEBRATIONS
On Saturday activity moves to Perth where Scotland’s celebrations will be held.
This year’s event, which will take place on the North Inch, will be a national celebration and show of solidarity with Ukraine and those its citizens who now call Scotland home.
Perth and Kinross councillors agreed in June to twin Perth with the Ukrainian city of Nikopol.
Strathallan Councillor Steven Carr, who was recently awarded an MBE for his work with the charity Dnipro kids, has been working with members of the Ukrainian community in Scotland to organise this year’s Independence Day celebrations.
He said: “It is almost two and a half years since Russia stepped up its invasion of Ukraine. Perth and Kinross, and Scotland as a whole, have shown great hospitality to all those who have fled the conflict and found refuge in Scotland.
“We know how difficult it is for them – even as many have put down roots and made connections in our communities, they know their loved ones back at home still face terrible risks every day.
“We want to show our support for Ukraine and Ukrainians on August 24 and are inviting Ukrainians, and anyone else who wants to experience a bit of Ukrainian culture, to Perth for the day.
“It will be a real celebration of Ukrainian culture and a demonstration that Scotland stands with Ukraine and its people.”
COMMENT FROM PROVOST
Provost Xander McDade said: “Perth and Kinross has been resolute in its support for Ukraine and our celebrations this year we hope people from across Scotland join us to mark Independence Day.
“There will be a range of events taking place showcasing Ukrainian and Scottish culture.”
The council has extended its thanks to Dnipro Kids and AUGB Edinburgh (Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain) for their “invaluable support” in this year’s event.
Acts performing on 24 August in Perth include featuring professional Ukrainian singers Elzara Batalova, Karina Cherviakova, and Olga Prokopenko, along with musician Nadiia Skliarova and the traditional dance ensemble Kvity Ukrainy and other music, singing and dance performers.
Other entertainment will come from the Saints in the Community, Perth Pipe Band, Adventure Circus, Strathmore School of Dance, Letham Majorettes, Inspire Dance, Kinfauns Step Dancers, and Fair City Baton Twirlers. There will also be activities, Willowgate Bungee, Axe Throwing, and bouncy castles for a fun-filled day for all ages.
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