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Unity through music and charity: how the Day of Defenders of Ukraine was celebrated in Vilnius
- Марійка Дзюба
- Oct 7, 2024
- 4 min read
Unity through music and charity: how the Day of Defenders of Ukraine was celebrated in Vilnius
The Ukrainian Centre in Vilnius hosted a large-scale event dedicated to the Day of Defenders of Ukraine.
The event combined emotional performances, cultural events and a charity event aimed at supporting the Ukrainian military who continue to defend their country from the aggressor.
Honouring the heroes
The event began with a minute's silence in tribute to the fallen Heroes of Ukraine who gave their lives defending the country's independence.
The event was attended by representatives of the Ukrainian diaspora, the Lithuanian community, politicians and other guests.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Republic of Lithuania Petro Beshta was one of the key persons at the event, and in his address to the audience he said
‘For 954 days, we have been witnessing the deeds of incomparable courage of our defenders, volunteers, medics, firefighters, rescuers, and all those who stand firm in defence of freedom.
The Ambassador stressed the importance of remembering the exploits of Ukrainian soldiers, as their heroism will go down in history as a symbol of steadfastness and devotion to Ukraine.
Wilma Bieikienė, Vice-Rector for Communications at Vytautas the Great University, also spoke and noted the important role of Lithuania in supporting Ukraine, especially during the war. Her speech underlined the importance of cooperation between the two countries in preserving democratic values and protecting freedom.
Wilma Bieikienė, Vice-Rector for Communication at Vytautas the Great University, also spoke, noting Lithuania's important role in supporting Ukraine, especially during the war. Her speech underlined the importance of cooperation between the two countries in preserving democratic values and protecting freedom.
Cultural programme: a combination of Ukrainian and Lithuanian motifs
The concert part of the event was a vivid example of cultural cooperation between Ukraine and Lithuania. The Orchestra of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Lithuania under the direction of Major Egidijus Ališauskas and Captain Dainius Pavilionis performed both classical Lithuanian pieces and Ukrainian melodies.
Accompanied by pianist and teacher Olena Bobovych, Ukrainian singer Nadiya Adamchuk and the children's choir ‘Mriya’, which operates at the Ukrainian Centre, presented joint musical performances.
The children, together with the Lithuanian orchestra, became active participants in the programme. According to the organiser, Iryna Snisarenko, the children's participation was not only aesthetic but also educational:
‘It helps children to understand that they are part of the Ukrainian community, connected to Ukraine, and that their efforts help the military, bringing victory closer.
A special moment was the joint performance of the Ukrainian and Lithuanian anthems, which emphasised the unity of the two nations in the fight for freedom.
The musical performances also symbolized the deep respect and solidarity of the Lithuanian people with Ukrainians.
In addition to the musical part, the photo project ‘Believe. Love. To Wait’ tells the story of Azovstal's close defenders who are in enemy captivity. This exhibition conveys deep emotions related to separation, pain and uncertainty, but at the same time is full of love, faith and hope for a meeting.
The exhibition featured the works of famous Ukrainian photographers Anastasia Soroka, Anastasia Krysak and Solomiia Nazarko, who depicted relatives of Ukrainian prisoners of war in their photographs.
The main goal of the project is to honor the captured defenders of Azovstal and show a deep connection with their families.
Iryna Snisarenko, one of the organizers of the event, stressed the importance of drawing attention to this issue:
‘The issue of prisoners of war is often forgotten, and new problems arise instead. But we have no right to remain silent about their suffering.
The ‘Bag of Goodness’ campaign: supporting the Ukrainian military
One of the key components of the event was the ‘Bag of Goodness’ charity event, which aims to collect necessary items for the Ukrainian military at the front line. Iryna Snisarenko told us how the idea for this campaign came about.
‘Initially, we planned a small symbolic donation, but after talking to the Ukrainian military, it became clear that they need not only household items such as wet wipes and energy bars, but also moral support - children's drawings, letters with warm words, and amulets.
The active participants of the event, including children and volunteers, made amulets in the form of angels for the Ukrainian military.
According to Iryna, the soldiers who received these symbolic gifts expressed gratitude, as it reminded them of support from the rear and gave them faith in victory.
The process of making the amulets was not only an important part of the campaign, but also a creative process that both children and adults could join.
A very important element of the campaign was the decision of Nova Post in Vilnius to deliver all the collected items to the Ukrainian military free of charge.
This was another confirmation of the close cooperation of the Ukrainian community in Lithuania and the support of its partners.
Community unity and volunteering
An important part of the event was the integration of the Lithuanian community in support of Ukraine. Organiser Iryna said that it is important for the Ukrainian Centre not only to preserve Ukrainian culture abroad, but also to integrate Lithuanian society into Ukrainian initiatives.
The Lithuanian military orchestra, which became a key part of the cultural programme, readily agreed to participate in the event, which demonstrates the high level of solidarity between the two countries.
The charity event and concert were organised by a small team of volunteers who made every effort to ensure that the event was held at a high level.
According to the organisers, the preparations took a month and required coordination with various parties, from Lithuanian musicians to local volunteers. Thanks to close cooperation and enthusiasm, the event was a success, and the Vilnius community showed its unity and support.
Future plans and prospects
The Ukrainian Centre in Vilnius plans to continue its active work in support of the Ukrainian military. Every Friday, Tetiana Pinaeva organises workshops at the centre, where everyone can join in making crafts for charity events.
The organisers are planning to join the international Christmas charity fair, where 100% of the funds raised at the Christmas fair will be donated to charity.
We will continue our work because each of us can contribute to the victory. We believe in our country and know that together we can win,’ summed up Iryna Snisarenko.
The event in Vilnius was yet another proof that the Ukrainian diaspora, in cooperation with its Lithuanian partners, not only preserves the memory of the heroes, but also actively works to support those who continue to fight.
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