🇺🇦 September Is Officially Recognized as Ukrainian Heritage Month in Canada!

Bill S-210, An Act respecting Ukrainian Heritage Month, establishes September as Ukrainian Heritage Month across Canada, recognizing the history, culture and contributions of Ukrainian Canadians.

What is heritage?

Heritage includes the history, language, traditions, arts, values and shared experiences passed from one generation to the next. It connects people to their roots, shapes identity and helps preserve community stories. Ukrainian heritage includes the Ukrainian language, literature, music, art, embroidery, cuisine and traditions.

Why do heritage months matter?

Heritage months create opportunities to recognize communities’ histories and contributions, share stories that may be less widely known, and encourage education and cultural exchange. They also help younger generations learn about their roots and invite people from different backgrounds to understand and appreciate one another.

Why is Ukrainian Heritage Month important?

Ukrainians have been part of Canada’s story for generations. The first recorded Ukrainian immigrants arrived in Canada on September 7, 1891. Since then, Ukrainian Canadians have contributed to the country’s cultural, social, political and economic life while preserving their heritage.

September is especially meaningful because it marks the anniversary of that first recorded arrival. Ukraine’s Independence Day is celebrated on August 24.

Recognizing Ukrainian Heritage Month provides an annual opportunity to honour the experiences and contributions of Ukrainian Canadians, celebrate a living culture and help pass traditions on to future generations. It also gives all Canadians an opportunity to learn more about Ukrainian history and the community’s role in shaping the country.

At CUIAS Immigrant Services, we believe that understanding heritage helps build inclusive communities where newcomers can maintain connections to their roots while building their futures in Canada.

Heritage connects us to where we come from—and sharing it helps shape the communities we build together.

Learn more about Bill S-210: https://www.parl.ca/legisinfo/en/bill/45-1/s-210