Ukrainian woman in Britain: how emigration helped her appreciate national traditions

A new perception of culture beyond one's home country

A Ukrainian woman who was forced to leave her homeland due to the war and moved to the United Kingdom spoke about the transformation of her attitude towards national identity. In her words, it was staying abroad that allowed her to reassess customs and celebrations that were previously perceived as a routine part of daily life.

«Я стала більшою українкою, коли приїхала до Британії» (I became a bigger Ukrainian when I came to Britain), the woman noted. She explains that in a Ukrainian environment, traditions surround us every day, so we do not always stop to think about why we observe certain customs. In contrast, in the United Kingdom, she has to explain the essence of Ukrainian rituals to local residents, for example, why they bake paska, consecrate them in churches, and celebrate religious holidays. These dialogues with her husband, his relatives, and friends helped her better understand her own culture.

Comparing wedding rituals

One of the interesting aspects the woman highlights is the difference in wedding traditions. She draws a parallel between Ukrainian and British customs: while in the United Kingdom the ritual of wearing something old, new, borrowed, and blue is well known, in Ukraine elements such as the korovai, the rushnyk, and many other symbolic rituals have been preserved.

Winter celebrations: a contrast of cultures

Significant differences are also noticeable during winter holidays. The British traditionally gather for a Christmas dinner and use festive Christmas crackers. Ukrainian Christmas, however, is accompanied by fasting cuisine, preparing kutia, and kolyaduvannya. The emigrant is convinced that Ukrainians often uphold these traditions without even thinking about how important they are for preserving national identity.

Easter and Ivan Kupala as a link with the diaspora

Easter holds a special place in the woman's heart. She shares that in the United Kingdom, a significant number of compatriots gather for Easter events, creating an atmosphere where one feels a sense of returning home, at least for an hour. She also enjoys the tradition of splashing water and celebrating Ivan Kupala with wreath-making.

Overall, according to the Ukrainian woman, life abroad helps to see the true value of those customs that Ukrainians have skillfully preserved to this day. Traditions cease to be merely a background element of everyday life and become a way to maintain a connection with the homeland, even when far from home.