Read this release in Ukrainian here: Дизайн Української Канадської Жертовної Медалі обрано
Read this release in French here: Choix du motif de la Médaille ukrainienne-canadienne du sacrifice
April 3, OTTAWA, ON. The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) and the Ukrainian War Veterans Association of Canada (UWVA) is pleased to announce the selection of the design for the Ukrainian Canadian Sacrifice Medal.
“On behalf of the Ukrainian Canadian community, I am very grateful to the many talented artists who submitted meaningful and thoughtful designs. Thank you to the medal design jury for their hard work, dedication and professionalism in selecting a design,” stated Taras Jackiw, Chair of the Medal Committee and Treasurer of the UWVA. “We believe the selected design is a profoundly moving symbol of the ties between Canada and Ukraine. The Medal is a poignant way for our community to pay tribute to the Canadians who have given their lives or were wounded in action fighting for Ukraine’s freedom, and to whom we owe a great debt.”
The UCC and UWVA congratulate artist and graphic designer Elena Zhukova of Vancouver, BC, who submitted the winning design. Since the Revolution of Dignity of 2013-14, Ms. Zhukova has been actively engaged in volunteering within the Ukrainian Canadian community of Vancouver. She has played an important role in many community initiatives, contributing to fundraising efforts aimed at supporting Ukraine.
The design combines the Tryzub and four Maple Leaves, which form a cross. “These visual elements come together to honour those who have demonstrated unwavering commitment and selflessness in the face of adversity. They create a meaningful tribute that serves as a bridge between two nations and celebrates the enduring spirit of freedom,” stated Ms. Zhukova.
Established by a Resolution of the XXVII Triennial Congress of Ukrainian Canadians in Winnipeg in fall, 2022, the Ukrainian Canadian Sacrifice Medal will honour Canadian citizens who have been killed or wounded in action serving with Ukraine’s Armed Forces in defence of Ukraine’s freedom against Russia’s genocidal war. At least ten Canadians have been killed in action in defence of Ukraine.
The Ukrainian Canadian Sacrifice Medal is funded (in part) by the Shevchenko Foundation Ukrainian Canadian Veterans Fund and the Desjardins Caisse popular Ukrainienne de Montréal. The UCC and UWVA are grateful for their generous support.
