MEMBERS of Reading’s Ukrainian Community came together to watch the grand final of Eurovision on Saturday, May 13.
Following Ukraine’s song taking the top spot in Eurovision last year, the UK was chosen to host, meaning the performers and international audience descended on Liverpool for the final.
Reading Ukrainian Community Centre (RUCC) hosted those of Ukrainian heritage as well as refugees and their friends and family to join the world in watching the conclusion of the international song competition.
The centre saw children taking part in decorating eggs to represent the competing countries, which were put on display for the event.
RUCC’s Mick Pollek said at the event that he had hoped the UK might win: “That way, we can return the favour and host a big party in a free Kyiv.”
Though Sweden would eventually go on to win this year, Ukraine made it to 6th place out of 26 entrants with TVORCHI’s Heart of Steel, and the UK’s Mae Muller came second to last, trailing only behind Germany.
Also in attendance was Mick Antoniw MS, who said: “This particular Eurovision is, I think, different to any others that have gone before.
“It’s different because Ukraine is now almost twinned with the whole of Europe, and we can’t host for reasons everyone knows.
“The reality is that this is an incredibly political event; people on the front lines and in the trenches will be listening under armed attack.
“Seeing those events taking place here will give an incredible morale boost because those people will know that they are not alone.”
When Mr Antoniw visits Ukraine as part of the efforts to bring supplies and vital donations, those he meets say: “When we receive this stuff, we know that we aren’t forgotten, we’re not alone, and that can be a real motivator to see this all through.”
As for whether Ukrainians had been looking forward to the event, he explained: “People are incredibly tense, and it is an opportunity to celebrate and let off a little steam.
“It’s also a way of reuniting with families back in Ukraine in many ways, through Eurovision, at a time when their lives are so difficult.”
With a number of children in attendance, the leader of the centre’s Saturday school sessions, Alexandra Sevko, said: “It’s very important for children, those who were born here, those of mixed heritage, and those who migrated.
“Ukraine is not isolated, and its culture belongs here as part of the world; music is such a big part of Ukrainian culture, and so it is important to show them that their culture contributes to the world.”
Ms Sevko, as well as working full time, teaches a full day of schooling at the centre on Saturdays, which is a vital part of helping them remain in touch with their language and heritage.
She also welcomed them back to the centre, along with their families, on Sunday, May 14, to celebrate Mother’s Day.
More details about services offered by the centre and upcoming events via: rucc.uk
