Mother’s Day in Ukraine
In Ukraine, Mother’s Day is observed on the second Sunday of May. This holiday was officially established by a decree from President Leonid Kuchma on May 10, 1999. In 2026, it will fall on May 10. The tradition of celebrating this day in Ukraine dates back even further, to 1928, when the Ukrainian Women’s Union of Canada organized the first Mother’s Day event. By 1929, the Ukrainian diaspora in Canada had begun celebrating it widely. However, in 1939, Soviet authorities banned the holiday, and it was not revived in Ukraine until 1990, thanks to efforts by civic organizations and the Ukrainian Women’s Union.
History and Traditions of the Celebration
Mother’s Day has deep historical roots. In the 17th century, Britain observed a custom known as ‘Mothering Sunday.’ The modern version of the holiday is over a hundred years old. Its origins trace back to 1907 in Virginia (USA), when Anna Jarvis proposed dedicating a day to honor mothers after her own mother passed away. In 1910, Virginia officially recognized Mother’s Day, and within four years, it became a nationwide celebration.
Mother’s Day is celebrated in various ways both in Ukraine and around the world. For example:
- In the United Kingdom, Ireland, Nigeria, and several other countries, it is observed on the fourth Sunday of Lent.
- In Moldova, Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, Vietnam, and Montenegro, mothers are honored on March 8.
- In Norway, Mother’s Day falls on the second Sunday of February, while in Georgia it is celebrated on March 3.
- In South Korea, May 8 is observed as Parents’ Day.
- In several countries across West Asia and Africa, the holiday is celebrated on March 21.
Interesting facts about this holiday are also striking. On the second Sunday of May, approximately 122 million phone calls are made. Nearly a quarter of all flowers purchased throughout the year are bought for Mother’s Day. It ranks second only to Christmas in the number of greeting cards sent. Anna Jarvis chose the white carnation as the symbol of Mother’s Day, which has become a key element of the celebration.
A decree establishing Mother’s Day in Ukraine—to be celebrated annually on the second Sunday of May—was issued in support of an initiative by the State Committee of Ukraine for Family and Youth Affairs, the international organization ‘Women’s Community,’ the Women’s Union of Ukraine, and the civic group ‘Ukrainian Women’s Union.’ This day serves as an important reminder of the role mothers play in society and the family, as well as the need to honor their labor and love.
Mother’s Day in Ukraine, with its deep historical roots, has become a symbol of honoring mothers and their role in the family and society. Over the decades, the holiday has undergone changes but has remained a vital part of cultural tradition. By celebrating this day, society underscores the significance of motherhood and the need to support women in their roles as mothers and caregivers. Thus, Mother’s Day not only celebrates personal bonds but also fosters social responsibility within the community.
As we look forward to Mother's Day in Ukraine, it's interesting to reflect on the broader significance of motherhood and environmental stewardship, especially on occasions like Earth Day. Celebrated on April 22, this day emphasizes our responsibility toward the planet, paralleling the nurturing role of mothers in our lives. To explore the connection between honoring our mothers and caring for Mother Earth, check out the article on key moments in history surrounding Earth Day.