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Hamilton Spectator

Sudburians don the ‘spiritual armour of Ukrainian people'

The third Thursday of May is Vyshyvanka Day, not just in Ukraine but anywhere you find Ukrainians. Sudbury has a strong Ukrainian heritage and presence. The signs at the corner of Paris and Elm in Hnatyshyn Park called World Vyshyvanka Day's embroidered shirts 'the spiritual armour of Ukrainian people.' It isn't a holiday but an expression of cultural identity. It is relatively new but does predate the war in Ukraine. In 2006, students at Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivitsi National University proposed dedicating one day each year to this effort. Now, I am told, people wear the decorated blouses to the office, in banks, at school and, in fact, everywhere. Rather than having it as a Saturday event, this demonstrates it is a part of everyday life. 'We have been doing this for many years to keep up the tradition,' said Taras Martyn, organizer of the event. He also lives at the Ukrainian Centre and is on the board of directors. 'Vyshyvanka is the visual icon of our people. It is international and now quite a statement of solidarity. You are wearing your country. I have a closet full of them.' Different regions of the country have unique colours and patterns. 'White linen was the background; now it is on any surface.' Myron Baryckyj may have a Ukrainian surname but grew up in Sudbury; he went to York University, worked in southern Ontario but returned to Sudbury some years ago. Interestingly, he is actually English and Dutch. 'I was adopted into a Ukrainian family,' Baryckyj explained. 'I have embraced the world that welcomed me. I learned the language, I was in the choir and my adoptive mother taught language school on Saturdays and Tuesday evenings. 'I think I know just about everyone in our community. I have my linen shirt and I think my mother may have put it together.' The cuffs, too, sport the decorative element. The turnout for the event grew after 4:30 p.m. and it became quite a party with attendees of all ages. 'It is now after work so people can come,' said Sandra Sharko, president of the Ukrainian Centre. 'We have a lot of newcomers. Many new families – over 200 - moved here in the first year and a half of the war. We are still collecting support for humanitarian aid.' A bench and signage was set up for photos. Some were posting to social media and even sending pictures back to their homeland. Naturally, coffee and cookies were offered. Check out the Ukrainian Seniors Sudbury FaceBook page for future events. Activities include the Blueberry Festival, the Garlic Festival and much more. The Local Journalism Initiative is made possible through funding from the federal government. Bluesky: @ X: @SudburyStar