Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has declared August 2026 Ukraine Month in the city. The proclamation was issued to celebrate Ukraine’s heritage, its struggle for freedom, democracy, and sovereignty, and to honor the Ukrainian-American community’s contribution to Chicago’s development.
The document notes that Ukraine, which declared independence on August 24, 1991, has become a global symbol of freedom, resilience, and democracy. Its people continue to courageously fight for their statehood in the face of Russian aggression.
The proclamation also notes that Chicago is home to one of the largest Ukrainian communities in the United States. Ukrainian Americans have made significant contributions to the city’s cultural, economic, educational, and civic life, enriching it with their traditions, religious community activities, business, and civic activism, the document says.
Separately, the annual Ukrainian flag-raising ceremony was noted, which became a symbol of solidarity between Chicago and Ukraine, as well as support for Ukrainian refugees who found shelter in the city.
