Truth & Reconciliation Week • Ukrainian Heritage Month

Embracing Truth and Reconciliation

As the Ukrainian Museum of Canada, Ontario Branch, we recognize Truth and Reconciliation Week as a vital opportunity to reflect on our shared histories and foster understanding among diverse communities. This week invites us to acknowledge the profound impact of colonization on Indigenous peoples and the ongoing journey toward healing and reconciliation.

In this spirit, we invite you to explore our interactive exhibition Spirit of Beads: Sharing our Stories, co-presented with the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto in 2020-2021. This exhibition beautifully embodies the connection between Ukrainian and Indigenous cultures through artistic expression. Beadwork serves as a powerful medium of storytelling and cultural preservation, emphasizing how art can bridge gaps between communities. Just as beads carry significant meanings in both Indigenous and Ukrainian cultures, they symbolize the intricate threads of shared narratives, experiences, and resilience.

Through our interactive Virtual Tour, you can engage with the stories behind the art. Our Educational Resources further enhance this experience, fostering deeper understanding and conversation about our shared histories. We encourage you to explore and share these resources, as they promote dialogue, respect, and recognition of past injustices.

As we observe this important week, we invite everyone to reflect on their role in reconciliation, learn from one another, and celebrate the rich tapestry of cultural heritage that unites us. By fostering connections and honoring the truths of the past, we can work towards a more inclusive and understanding future for all.

Celebrating Ukrainian Heritage at Baycrest Centre

On Thursday, September 19, 2024, the Ukrainian Museum of Canada Ontario Branch had the pleasure of collaborating with Baycrest Centre to celebrate Ukrainian Heritage Month in Ontario. Our Exhibitions Curator, Daria Diakowsky, presented a shortened English version of our Mamyna Sorochka event from 2014.

The presentation featured a captivating slideshow accompanied by live narration, attended by approximately 20 residents and caregivers. Daria presented the thirteen ethnographic regions of Ukraine, showcasing stunning photographs of landscapes and landmarks. Each region was highlighted with images of traditional sorochky from our Collection, accompanied by detailed descriptions of their cuts, thread colors, and stitching techniques.

Daria was joined by Board Member Marta Bozdek and Executive Administrator Tamara Ivanochko. Together, they engaged with Baycrest residents, caregivers, and staff, answering many insightful questions. The audience was particularly captivated by four sorochky from our collection on dress forms, which circulated around the space, allowing attendees to appreciate the craftsmanship up close.

We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to share our rich culture with the Baycrest community. We look forward to future collaborations and celebrations of our heritage!

Photographs by Marta Bozdek

TEMPORARY CLOSURE

Please excuse the mess! Our gallery space is currently closed to the public in order to prepare our upcoming exhibition, Making a Museum. Our boutique remains OPEN during regular museum hours and we are always happy to welcome guests and visitors!

UPCOMING EVENTS

We are delighted to announce the upcoming textile workshops as part of our Repurposed exhibition programming. Please visit Upcoming Events for more information or to register for workshops. Space is limited, registration is required.

September 26 Drop Spindle Workshop with Christina Dashko
September 27 Ukrainian Literature Book Club at SVI
October 3 Drop Spindle Workshop with Christina Dashko
October 25 Making a Museum exhibition opening and UMCO 80th Anniversary Cocktail Party Fundraiser! Please contact us for sponsorship and donor opportunities for this exciting event!
November 6 & 7 Kraika Making Workshop with Bozena Hrycyna
November 9 & 10 Tapestry Making Workshop with Bozena Hrycyna
November 16 & 17 UMCO Christmas Market

80 years young! 🎂

2024 marks a significant milestone for us as we celebrate our 80th Anniversary! For eight decades, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to preserving, promoting, and sharing our Ukrainian cultural heritage with Canadians and visitors from all around the world.

Save the Date!

Join us on Friday, October 25th, 2024, as the Ukrainian Museum of Canada – Ontario Branch celebrates its 80th Anniversary with a cocktail party fundraiser and the opening of our commemorative exhibition, Making a Museum. Details to follow.

UKRAINIAN MATRIX Last Chance!

The Thunder Bay Museum is showcasing a stunning exhibit on Ukrainian culture and traditions, honouring generations of Ukrainians in Northern Ontario! Don’t miss it – running until September 29, 2024. View the segment about this exhibit on the Ukrainian Connections YouTube channel.

STAND WITH UKRAINE 🇺🇦

The Ukrainian Museum of Canada, Ontario Branch, stands in solidarity with Ukraine in defence of its sovereignty and independence. There is no place for aggression against any sovereign country. Respect for the rule of law matters to every citizen in every country of the world. The Ukrainian Museum of Canada, Ontario Branch, remains committed to preserving and exhibiting Ukrainian culture and identity within Canada and the world.

Donations can be made to the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal established by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress and the Canada-Ukraine Foundation to provide humanitarian assistance to Ukraine quickly and efficiently.