Intro:
I am proposing a park memorial for Ukraine and its people. I will have it built in Ukrainian village in NYC. Before this year many people have never heard of Ukraine or may have no idea what it is. That is because it is a tiny country located in eastern Europe and it has been relatively quiet and peaceful until recently. Up until 1991, Ukraine wasn’t established, it was one of the many countries mixed into the USSR around Europe. But once the USSR collapsed, so did all the countries that made it up, and this led to Ukraine becoming an independent nation. Although it was now independent that doesn’t mean it was successful, it still had many issues from its USSR days like a weak government, corruption, and a poor economy. But this didn’t stop the people of Ukraine from building and improving their country to their best ability. The ones who could, left for better lives and better opportunities, but wherever they went they brought their Ukrainian heritage with them. The less fortunate ones stayed in Ukraine and built their careers and families in their home country. Up until recently, everything has been calm and people were living their normal lives doing their daily routines until Putin decided to invade Ukraine. No one knows why he did it, people can only speculate but it has to be something truly evil inside him. He offered Ukraine a chance to peacefully surrender but since Ukraine has been independent for over 32 years it doesn’t need Russia’s help. That is why he did a full-on invasion into Ukraine trying to take over, but he is doing in the most brutal inhumane way possible. They are bombing civilian cities, and innocent killing children, women, and men and have no remorse for their lives. They are literally killing civilians on purpose and no one can really help Ukraine out so they are just stuck to fend for themselves. That is why this park will help build awareness and be a safe space for any Ukrainians trying to talk or connect with someone new.
Problem:
The Ukrainian park will be used to honor Ukraine and be a place where anyone can come and enjoy Ukrainian heritage or come and meet fellow Ukrainians. NYC is one of the most diverse and largest cities in the world so it will be a perfect location for the memorial. As most of you know Ukraine has been invaded by Russia and has been facing non-stop bombings and attacks. This is all uncalled for as Ukraine has done nothing to provoke Russia besides deny their request of taking over. They have been killing children and women and have shown no sympathy. This has led to many people fleeing the country as refugees, and going to new places where they have no idea on what to do next. Also, the less fortunate people who cannot leave have to face war on their doorstep with many having to hide out in basements or bunkers. This has an extreme toll on children’s mental health since when they are young events like these can have an extreme impact and change their brain chemistry. The horrible part is no country can step in and help Ukraine so they are left to fend for themselves only relying on donations from other countries. The war was broadcasted on many news outlets in the beginning and many people were talking about it but as time went on fewer and fewer news outlets stopped covering it. The war is still happening to this day but little to no new outlets cover it. That is why we need more recognition so people won’t forget about the horrendous things happening.
Explanation;
The idea of a park memorial isn’t anything new, parks are scattered all over the country and are a universal place of greenery and good vibes. That is why I believe a park memorial will be perfect. The park will be located in the Ukrainian village and will replace the current park called Abe Lebewohl park but it will also be expanded across Stuyvesant St into a 2nd part. The park is lively and has many trees and flowers which gives you a nice break from the NYC hectic streets. It will be covered in sunflowers and chamomiles which are popular flowers in Ukraine. Once you go deeper into the park you will see Ukrainian flags scattered around the park. Also, there will be a statue of the Ukrainian national symbol which is almost like a pitchfork without the stick. Lastly, there will be a plaque memorizing all the innocent people who have lost their lives to Putin’s greed. Throughout the park, there will be benches and tables where people can sit and enjoy their food or just have a little break. Since it’s in the heart of the Ukrainian village hopefully there will be many Ukrainians around so if anyone wants to learn more about Ukrainian culture, or wants to connect with someone who can relate to them it will be the perfect place.
Conclusion;
To conclude, the Ukrainian park will be a place to bring light to Ukraine and raise awareness to Ukrainian culture and the hardships they have gone through. It will also be a reminder of how strong Ukrainians are and how they can overcome anything. It’ll also be a safe place for Ukrainians or anyone wanting to learn more about Ukraine and its diverse culture. Since it’s located in the heart of the Ukrainian village there will be many amazing Ukrainian food places nearby so one can grab some food and head over to the park to enjoy their day. The park symbolizes that even though NYC is thousands of miles away from Ukraine we are still there for them and helping them win this battle.