On the occasion of Ukraine’s Independence Day, hundreds of Ukrainians joined in a cultural event in Dublin city.
The Ukrainian Crisis Centre Ireland (UCCI), with assistance from the Ukrainian Embassy, organised the event in Mountjoy Square Park on Saturday.
Families participated in activities such as painting, dancing, and decorating biscuits. Additionally, there were stalls serving traditional Ukrainian food.
UCCI chief executive Michael Baskin said that it was important for the community to come together to celebrate the traditions of their home country in the midst of the difficulties they face.
Mr. Baskin, who moved to Ireland more than 20 years ago, said it was particularly important for those who had arrived in Ireland since the war began in Ukraine.
“Everybody has had a great day,” he said. “It’s about unity. Everybody is relaxed and they are smiling which is very important in all aspects of life.
“Even with the hardship Ukrainians are going through, it’s important to find the time to celebrate.
“It marks for us six months of war and Ukrainians still exist. So there’s something to celebrate. They are smiling and dancing.”
Since the invasion of their nation by Russia six months ago, more than 40,000 Ukrainians have migrated to Ireland.
UCCI connects the Ukrainian community living in Ireland as well as providing support to Ukrainians displaced by the war.