Anniversary of the November Act: Memory and Significance for Future Generations

Honoring the November Act is one of the important steps in preserving our national memory. After all, it refers to an event that led to the creation of the Western Ukrainian People's Republic (ZUNR): on the night of October 31 to November 1, 1918, a military uprising took place in Lviv, aimed at establishing Ukrainian authority in the western Ukrainian lands. At that time, the Austro-Hungarian Empire was on the verge of collapse, and the Ukrainians of Galicia decisively declared their right to their own state.

Today, as Ukraine once again fights for freedom and independence, the events of November 1918 gain special significance. History reminds us of the cost of statehood, the importance of unity, and the responsibility of each generation for the future of Ukraine. With this in mind, Ukrainians in Chicago joined in commemorating the next (this year — 108th) anniversary of the November Act. In the walls of the Ukrainian National Museum in Chicago, a meeting took place, filled with historical memory, patriotism, and deep respect for those who stood up for Ukrainian statehood over a century ago. The commemoration of the November Act united people for whom the history of Ukraine is not just pages in textbooks but a living heritage that needs to be preserved, researched, and passed on to future generations.

The festivities began with the performance of the main national anthems — symbols of freedom and independence. The United States National Anthem was performed by Marta Fraser, and the Ukrainian Anthem was sung in duet by Marta Fraser and Dana Chepil. These moments marked a special beginning to the event, as the first song expressed gratitude to the country that became home to many Ukrainians, and the second — an undying love for the native land, its language, its history, its struggle for freedom.

The guests were welcomed by the museum director Iryna Voloshyna and the founder of the historical reconstruction club "Sotnya Siromantsi" Yuriy Soroka. In the introductory speech, the importance of preserving historical memory was emphasized, as it is through such meetings that the past becomes closer, and younger generations have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the Ukrainian people's path to independence. The solemn part continued with a prayer led by Father Serhiy Kovalchuk. In a shared spiritual unity, those present honored the memory of those who gave their lives for Ukraine, for the right of the Ukrainian people to be free masters of their own land. These were moments of gratitude and deep reflection on history, which resonates especially today as Ukraine once again fights for its rights to freedom. 

A particular interest was sparked by the historical presentation and exhibition of little-known photographs from archival collections, presented by Vasyl Lopukh — a well-known Ukrainian public figure in the USA, economist, and full member of the Shevchenko Scientific Society. A unique layer of history was revealed to the audience, which, thanks to the archival work of researchers, gained the opportunity to speak to contemporaries. The old photographs, found and restored by Vasyl Lopukh, are not just images of people in military uniforms but captured moments of history. Each photograph became a kind of window into the past. Behind the faces, clothing, military insignia, and details of the time, the fates of people emerged, whose names in history deserve to be remembered. 

Such archival finds help restore historical truth, complement known facts, and bring important pages of the Ukrainian national movement back from oblivion. Mr. Vasyl was eager to answer the audience's questions, fostering a sense of unity and understanding. The presentation of archival photos demonstrated how important the work of researchers is, who do not allow history to dissolve in time. An equally captivating part of the event was the exhibition of uniforms, military equipment, and household items from the times of the Ukrainian Sich Riflemen. It was presented by Ivan Strilchuk — a member of the historical reconstruction club "Sotnya Siromantsi," a researcher of the history of Ukrainians in the Austro-Hungarian army. The exhibition gave visitors the opportunity not just to see historical items but to seemingly transport themselves into the atmosphere of that era. Clothing, elements of military equipment, and everyday items told about the lives of Ukrainian soldiers, their service, daily life, conditions, and challenging fate during the turbulent times of World War I.

 Ivan Strilchuk interestingly and accessibly talked about the presented exhibits, explained their purpose, historical features, and significance, and also provided comprehensive answers to the audience's questions. The meeting concluded with a touching performance by the famous quartet "Prykarpatsky," which gifted the audience an incredible a cappella performance of insurgent songs, leaving a significant impression with their wonderful singing. The hall resonated with melodies in which the history of Ukrainian struggle lives, the pain of separation from the native land, longing for freedom, and an unbreakable faith in victory. The commemoration of the November Act at the Ukrainian National Museum in Chicago became something much more than just a historical meeting. It was a meeting of generations, memory and modernity, tradition and the indomitable Ukrainian spirit. It was yet another confirmation that Ukrainians, even far from their native land, cherish their history, honor Heroes, nurture national traditions, and pass on the love for all things Ukrainian to the next generations. Great thanks to the organizers and everyone who contributed to this important event with their presence. It is thanks to such people that Ukrainian history does not gather dust on archival shelves but lives in hearts.

 For Ukraine is not just the land where we were born. It is the memory we carry through generations. It is the language we pray in, the song we sing, the flag we proudly bear, and the unyielding faith that the struggle of our ancestors and current defenders will never be in vain.

Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Heroes