Unify Ukraine campaign

Here’s how Ukraine’s National Day of Unity looked different this year.

Ukrainians displaced by Russian invasion spent their National Day of Unity away from their homeland.

Ashley Zlatopolsky, writing for the Unify Ukraine Campaign.

#UnifyUkraine

Across Europe and around the world, memories of unity still exist for millions of Ukrainians separated from their homeland. Instead of celebrating a special day that’s known for unification together, millions of displaced Ukrainians recognized their National Day of Unity taking shelter in countries both near and far.

As neighboring Poland continues to welcome those displaced by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, efforts are being made to #UnifyUkraine and stand with refugees, many of whom have spent more than 10 months away from their country, family members and friends.

As the one-year mark of the invasion approaches, it’s important for everyone to remember that the destruction is far from over. Bravely, Ukrainians continue to fight for their freedom every day.

On behalf of the Polish government, the #UnifyUkraine public service campaign aims to shed light on the ongoing Russian invasion and its devastating effects. Children traumatized by war and the loss of home need care, support and a safe space. Polish civilians are going into war-torn Ukraine to bring friends and family to safety, or offering their homes to shelter refugees who have none.

Such stories are more important than ever as Ukrainians celebrated their National Day of Unity on January 22, both at home in Ukraine and, for displaced Ukrainians, in temporary homes in countries worldwide that have provided shelter.

Here’s everything you need to know about Ukraine’s National Day of Unity, how Poland has helped Ukraine — and how you can, too, through the Unify Ukraine Campaign.

What is Ukraine’s National Day of Unity?

Ukraine’s National Day of Unity celebrates the unification of Eastern and Western Ukraine in 1919, following the end of World War I. Typically, celebrations feature carrying the national flag (which includes creating a human chain across bridges to symbolize national unity), concerts and other community events.

While the National Day of Unity isn’t a public holiday in Ukraine, it serves as an important and beloved day of observance that millions of Ukrainians have participated in for more than 100 years. That’s when eastern and western Ukraine, which previously belonged to different empires, were united.

Now, as the Russian invasion seeks to destroy that unity and take away land from Ukraine, the annual celebration takes on a new meaning.

How is Poland continuing to help Ukraine?

Since the start of the Russian invasion on February 24, 2022, it’s estimated that more than 8.3 million refugees from Ukraine have crossed the Polish border. Just two weeks after the attacks began, more than 142,000 people crossed the Polish border on a single day — March 6, 2022.

Since the beginning of the conflict, refugees have received aid at the Polish border and throughout the country. Poland has provided food, shelter, medicine and jobs for Ukrainians who left with nothing.

Most recently, the European Union has given Poland 144.6 million euro to help it continue to support Ukrainian refugees displaced by the invasion.

Throughout the conflict, Poland has provided incredible support to Ukraine. It has become a frontline partner, humanitarian supplier and logistical hub for aiding Ukrainian refugees. Poland also remains second behind the U.S. in providing military support to Ukraine.

What is the Unify Ukraine Campaign?

On January 22, Americans were asked to stand with Ukraine on their National Day of Unity. The campaign asked supporters to post an image of a sunflower, which is Ukraine’s national flower, on social media using the hashtag #UnifyUkraine.

In New York City, a magnificent field of bright sunflowers cut through the winter chill in Flatiron Plaza for four days as hundreds of people visited the art installation, took photos and shared messages of hope on social media.

Through the campaign’s efforts, supporters are given a means to demand an end to the occupation so Ukraine can be united once more. By standing together, the goal is to generate awareness for peace.

From January 23, to February 10, the campaign will continue to share stories of survival of refugees who have found a temporary home in Poland, and the bravery of both Ukrainian and Polish people who risk their own safety to make sure Ukrainian friends and families are safe. The campaign seeks to raise greater awareness among Americans on the long-term impact of the invasion, and the cultural history that has fueled the conflict.

The campaign continues to seek partners who will help amplify the message of hope and the call to stand with Ukrainians in their fight for freedom.

How to get involved

Showing support on social media through the #UnifyUkraine movement is the most powerful way to let Ukrainians know they are not alone and we stand with them.

In Washington, D.C., an End the Occupation mobile truck installation featuring black sunflowers will be live and touring the city from Jan. 31 to Feb. 3. The route will pass landmarks such as the Russian embassy, Senate and House office buildings, U.S. Department of State and Embassy Row on Massachusetts Ave. A city-wide ad campaign will run through Feb. 10 to raise awareness for this important cause.

Supporters of Ukraine can also explore content related to the #UnifyUkraine movement as well as a list of nonprofit organizations they may choose to support by visiting UnifyUkraineCampaign.org.

Learn more about the #UnifyUkraine movement, visit facebook.com/unifyukraine or its Instagram at @unify_ukraine.