The Ukrainian American Community Center is infused with the kind of heart energy that Sullivan Ballou personified. The mission of the Center is “[t]o promote, preserve, and share Ukrainian heritage, traditions, history, and culture….through activities such as traditional folk dance, music and the arts…” The heartfelt affection with which the Center carries out that mission can be seen in such things as the captivating performances of the Cheremose Dance Ensemble, the classes teaching cooking and crafts like the beautiful Ukrainian art form of Pysanky egg decorating, the very popular Friday Lenten Pierogi fish fry dinners, and the many youth, sports, and music events and festivals that take place at the Center.
The Ukrainian Center has become a rich and vibrant reflection of an old and engaging culture. Every person’s life is enriched by sense of history and identity. As the hub of the now-dispersed Ukrainian community in the Twin Cities, the Ukrainian Center nurtures connection, fond memories, and a sense of belonging to older and younger generations alike.
Of course, your mission to preserve and promote Ukrainian culture has taken on a new urgency as Russia endeavors to crush Ukrainian culture and Ukraine itself. And your hearts have opened in response--you have expanded your mission to supporting your countrymen with humanitarian aid and now you are making plans to help Ukrainian refugees settle in the United States.
The Minneapolis community stands with you and Ukraine. We know Ukraine and its culture will prevail in this latest attack just as it has so many times before.
Congratulations!
Elissa and Bruce Peterson, Founding Members