On December 18, an online event entitled "Christmas Traditions of Communities — Side by Side" was held as part of the fourth wave of the national project "Side by Side: United Communities."
The event was attended by communities from the Mariupol district — Mangush, Sartana, Mykolaiv, and Kalchyk — as well as communities from the Cherkasy region — Stepanets and Chyhyryn.
The communities shared their Christmas traditions, warm family stories, and cultural characteristics, which they preserve and pass on from generation to generation, even in difficult times for the country. The event became a space for sincere communication, mutual support, and another confirmation that the communities of Ukraine remain side by side regardless of distance and trials.
During the event, participants honored the memory of the fallen with a minute of silence and expressed their sincere gratitude to the defenders of Ukraine, thanks to whom we have the opportunity to preserve traditions, communicate, and be together.
The atmosphere of family warmth, unity, and sincerity is something that cannot be taken away or destroyed. Interest in our ancient culture is growing. And such meetings are not just an event. They are a vitally necessary space for cultural exchange, mutual support, and for feeling that we are not alone.
We must support and preserve these initiatives — for ourselves, for our children, and for those who will come after us. "Side by side" — because together we are stronger.