Manor College hosts vigil for Ukraine, marking three years of war (Photo: Manor College)
On the third anniversary of Russia’s war against Ukraine, a small community in Pennsylvania came together at Manor College to reflect. People gathered to show support and find hope in the face of ongoing conflict. The event was held at the Ukrainian Heritage Studies Center and Museum. It was a time to remember and honor Ukraine’s struggle for freedom.
The vigil brought together locals, Ukrainian refugees, and Americans with Ukrainian roots. Many of the attendees wore traditional embroidered shirts to show their pride. The event was a reminder of the strength and unity that has carried Ukrainians through years of hardship. It served as a powerful symbol of resilience. The community’s shared values and history were on full display at Manor College, making the event both meaningful and emotional.
Chrystyna Prokopovych, the curator of the museum, shared her feelings of fear and hope. She said the uncertainty she felt three years ago when the war started was still very real. Despite the fear, she also recognized the significant support Ukraine has received from countries like the United States. This support has helped Ukraine maintain its sovereignty, but tensions remain high, especially with political changes affecting the situation. The support from the Manor College community has been a beacon of hope.
Recent political tensions have made the situation even more complicated. The United States recently voted alongside Russia against a U.N. resolution that condemned Russian aggression. This decision shocked many in the Ukrainian community, including Iryna Mazur, honorary consul of Ukraine in Philadelphia. However, despite the disappointment, Mazur emphasized the importance of focusing on the future and not letting emotions take over. The community needs to stay united and strong to face the challenges ahead.
Manor College, founded by the Ukrainian Sisters of Saint Basil the Great in 1947, has deep ties to Ukrainian culture. The college has become a place of hope and support for Ukrainian students and faculty. Many refugees and descendants of World War II survivors find comfort there. Manor College has become a safe haven where they can continue their education and stay connected to their heritage. Sofiia Ogerchuk, a student who arrived in the U.S. shortly after the war began, shared her relief at finding such a supportive community in America.
In the past three years, many Ukrainians have come to the U.S. through programs like “Uniting for Ukraine” (U4U). However, recent changes to immigration policies under the Trump administration have caused uncertainty. These changes have left many immigrants feeling anxious about their future. Anatoli Murha, CEO of the Ukrainian Selfreliance Federal Credit Union, expressed concern about the lack of clear guidance on immigration. This uncertainty weighs heavily on those trying to build a new life in America. The future is still unclear for many families who have fled the war and found a place at Manor College.
Sofia Myronovych, who fled Ukraine with her daughter, expressed her own worries about the future. Despite having Temporary Protected Status (TPS) through 2026, she still fears what lies ahead. The uncertainty about her future in the U.S. is hard to cope with. Like many others, she longs for stability, peace, and a sense of security. The ongoing fear makes it difficult for families like hers to plan for the future.
Despite all the challenges, both Americans and Ukrainians in Pennsylvania are determined to remain hopeful and united. Nicholas Rudnytzky, the dean of academic services at Manor College, praised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for his strong leadership. He has remained steadfast against Russian aggression and political pressure. The local community continues to honor their heritage and show their support for Ukraine. Their commitment to standing by Ukraine remains unwavering and is well supported by Manor College.
The event concluded with a vigil at the Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center. It featured speeches, traditional Ukrainian songs, and donations to Revived Soldiers Ukraine. The vigil was a powerful display of solidarity and support. Despite political fluctuations and challenges, Mazur remains hopeful. She believes the American people will continue to stand by Ukraine just as Manor College will.
Ogerchuk, a psychology major at Manor College, plans to return to Ukraine after the war ends. She hopes to use her education to help her fellow Ukrainians rebuild their country. Others, like Myronovych, continue to pray for peace and stability. They long for a future where Ukraine can thrive in freedom and prosperity. The community remains hopeful, despite the uncertainties they face. Manor College is committed to providing ongoing support.
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