Constitution Day

Constitution Day is celebrated on 28 June, the anniversary of the approval of the Constitution of Ukraine on 28 June 1996. Celebration doesn't seem the right word on a day when Russian brutality has, once again, reached unimaginable limits. But, as has been pointed out, there is cause to celebrate the bravery and determination of Ukrainians to continue resisting this barbarism and the fake news that is perpetuated by Russia.

We spent the afternoon and evening in Stryilskyi Park, first at the UNICEF tent, organising Bob's English lessons for children and discussing how best to spend some funds that have been donated for children.

At 7pm we had a meeting with a small group of refugees, via our interpreter, in a swelteringly hot room at the top of the building. There was some interest, as always, particularly from a grandmother, daughter and granddaughter, who come from the Donetsk region and have lost their home and everything - a horribly familiar story. Due to the lack of sponsors in England, now, we are advising people to also consider the Scottish and Irish (southern Ireland) schemes.

As we walked home, quite late, across Svobody Square, there was an incredibly rousing and patriotic rendition of the national anthem by a military band and choir, in front of the National Opera House. There were some tears amongst the crowd.

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