Ukrainian Women’s Association of Australia celebrates 75th anniversary

The Ukrainian Women’s Association of Australia in Cowra, New South Wales, is celebrating its 75th anniversary, Nataliya Poshyvaylo-Towler, UWC Vice President for Oceania and Asia, reported.

“Ukrainian women from various parts of the country – representing branches in New South Wales, Victoria, the Australian Capital Territory, and South Australia – gathered together to honor the legacy of this important organization,” wrote Poshyvaylo-Towler.

“It all started in the Cowra migrant camp on 13 September 1949, with Mrs I. Polensly as the first president,” she said. “While Ukrainian women were holding meetings in migrant centres across Australia, Cowra is considered the birthplace of the U.W.A., where the spirit of unity, resilience, and dedication to our community was first brought to life.” 

Ukrainian women who arrived in Australia after World War II quickly organized themselves by continuing the work started in Ukraine decades earlier, inspired by the National Council of Women established in Ukraine in 1919. 

Their efforts included advocating “for the rights of Ukrainian women back home, suffering under Soviet rule,” the UWC Vice President said. “In 1975, they circulated a petition to raise awareness about the persecution of Ukrainian women fighting for basic human rights. Today, as we reflect on our rich history, we remain committed to supporting our communities both here and in Ukraine.”

Poshyvaylo-Towler expressed gratitude to the event organizers, particularly the current president Luba Kaye, for her tireless efforts. 

“We also thank the local council for their wonderful representation and the support of” the Ukrainian ambassador to Australia, she concluded.