Mikolayenko showcases Ukrainian heritage as part of Culture Days

Mikolayenko noted the circle is also a symbol of eternity and the bread represents life and hospitality. Bread is often gifted alongside salt, which never loses its taste and so it’s a symbol of enduring friendship.

“The kolach can be used in a welcome greeting, but it’s also used for other special occasions. It used as part of a Christmas Eve celebration, it used in funerals and other special occasions and variations of it – ritual breads – are used for other celebrations as well,” Mikolayenko added.

“The circle figures in other elements, for example, in the traditional Easter eggs – the pysanka. You will often see circles as part of the symbols that are written on to the eggs, so again that symbol of eternity.”

During the presentation, Mikolayenko wore a blouse called a vyshyvanka with a traditional cross stitch, which is more than 50 years old. Her red boots were made custom for her years ago when she was part of a dance group.

Mikolayenko believes all cultures are worth celebrating.

“This is my heritage and it is one way of honouring my ancestors, and it’s also what I consider a gift to the younger generation and to other people,” she said.

“I have had the opportunity to share my Ukrainian culture with the Early Years Centre a couple of years ago. They had a multicultural event, where they had different presentations on different cultures, so I was able to share with them at that time. If there are other opportunities, I try to take advantage of them.”

Culture Days at the Alex Robertson Public Library began earlier this week with traditional Indigenous songs and dance with Cathy Wheaton and Laura Burnouf. It will continue Sept. 29 with a two-part expressive arts workshop focusing on fire grief and renewal.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

by Derek Cornet

Mikolayenko showcases Ukrainian heritage as part of Culture Days

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