Orthodox Christians around the world are preparing to celebrate Easter. And for the large Ukrainian community in the Triangle, it’s not just a time of celebration, but a reminder of the ongoing war with Russia, and their fight for their country.
At the Factory in Wake Forest, from Ukrainian music, dancers, and the classic pysanky Easter eggs, it was an early celebration.
“Easter is such an important holiday for Ukrainians we have so many traditions that grow from I mean who knows how long,” said Slava Petukhova, who grew up in Ukraine but has lived in the Triangle for decades.
It’s a tradition that has even more meaning given the ongoing war in Ukraine, surviving Russian attacks.
“Last year Easter and year before Easter they actually shelled much more and they were trying to hit churches where the people gathered together,” Slava said.
They were selling Ukrainian clothing, bread, pysanky, and more arts and crafts, all to raise money for much-needed medical supplies going directly to those impacted. Slava has been back five times since the war began and will be bringing the supplies again to Ukraine in a few weeks.