The Comox Valley Ukrainian Cultural Association (CVUCS) has invited a professor of History and Slavic Studies from the University of Victoria specializing in Russo-Ukrainian relations teaching at the University of Victoria to help us gain a better understanding of the war in Ukraine.
Serhy Yekelchyk, born and educated in Ukraine, received a BA from Kyiv University, his MA from the Ukrainian Academy of Sciences and a PhD from the University of Alberta. He is the author of eight books on modern Ukrainian history and Russo-Ukrainian relations including the award-winning Stalin鈥檚 Citizens: Everyday Politics in the Wake of Total War. In addition, Yekelchyk is current president of the Canadian Association for Ukrainian Studies.
The current numbers of Ukrainian citizens living in the Comox Valley since March 2022 has exceeded 235 individuals. These survivors of Putin鈥檚 illegal war are predominantly women and school age children. Some are men who are working, and a few survivors are grandmothers and grandfathers. All have left their homes and jobs, their families and friends and the country which they love. All are grateful for the support from Valley residents since they arrived.
Understanding why Ukraine was illegally invaded will not change nor stop the pain. Many are trying but failing to make sense of the invasion. Putin鈥檚 War which began over 30 months ago seems to not have an end in sight. Those of us living in the western world have difficulty separating social media lies from partial truths and blatant distortions.
Dr. Yekelchyk鈥檚 live Zoom presentation will address the following questions: What is the ancient and historical relationship between present day Russia and Ukraine? When did the notion of nationhood first emerge in Ukraine and how does that relate to the city state of Kyiv? What is Muscovy? How does Ukraine鈥檚 experience during WW II relate to Putin鈥檚 war in Ukraine? Why does Putin refer to Ukraine as a Fascist and Antisemitic State?
Please bring your questions on Oct. 8 to Room B at the Comox Recreation Centre (1855 Noel Ave). Doors open at 7:30 p.m.. Admission is by donation. CVUCS members are free. All proceeds will support the integration of Ukrainian newcomers living in the Comox Valley. Donations are accepted via email to cvukrainianculturalsociety@gmail.com.
