The photo exhibition “United by Liberty” has opened at the War Museum. The project was developed by the War Museum in cooperation with the Embassy of the United States of America in Ukraine and the U.S. National Park Service.
Presenting the project, Yurii Savchuk, Director General of the War Museum, shared the concept behind the exhibition: “This project tells the story of the 140-year history of the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of democracy, dignity, and hope for people across the world. It is particularly important that we present this exhibition on the pedestal of the Motherland Monument. At the time our monument was created, the world was polarized.
Yet history has taken a different turn. Today, Ukraine is fighting for its independence. The Motherland Monument has become a symbol of Ukraine’s strength, resilience and courage. For our fellow citizens, it now carries the same meaning as the Statue of Liberty does for Americans.”
Deputy Minister of Culture of Ukraine Tetyana Filevska emphasized the importance of implementing such projects: “Ukrainians have always felt the solidarity of the American people. The photo exhibition marking the 250th anniversary of the United States Independence is another way to express our gratitude for this support.”
Before moving on to anniversary greetings, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Mariana Betsa recalled the events of the night of 2 July: “Today, the terrorist state once again carried out a horrific attack on Ukraine’s civilian population. I am therefore pleased to see diplomats from different countries here today, representing nations that stand with us in this war. In this symbolic place, we declare that we are united in our commitment to freedom and democracy.”
Jonas Stewart, Counselor for Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine, delivered his remarks in Ukrainian as a gesture of solidarity: “As the title of the exhibition suggests, we are indeed united by freedom. Behind me rises the Motherland Monument, a powerful symbol of Ukraine’s strength, resilience and sovereignty. And across the ocean stands her ‘sister’, the Statue of Liberty, which for 140 years has served as a beacon of American values and a symbol of freedom for all who seek it. Tonight, these two symbols have come together, just as Ukraine and the United States are united by their shared commitment to freedom and independence.”
The atmosphere of the event was enriched by remarkable performances from the Alliance Brass Quintet of the U.S. Army Europe and Africa Band, as well as musical pieces performed by the Ensemble of Soloists of the Cultural Forces of Ukraine. The composition “Amazing Grace” was performed jointly by Ukrainian and American musicians.
The photo exhibition United by Liberty is not only a story about the symbols that have shaped national identities, but also about the shared values that continue to unite nations in their pursuit of freedom.
We invite you to visit the exhibition and experience this dialogue across time and space: between two symbols, two countries, and a shared commitment to independence, dignity and freedom.
We look forward to welcoming you at the War Museum.
