It’s widely known that Canada, and Toronto in particular, has been home to a large Ukrainian diaspora since the 20th century. Toronto itself is a highly multicultural city, and Ukrainians form a significant part of its diverse population. The city authorities strive to support Ukrainian newcomers and create a welcoming environment for them. Today, we delve into the history of the Ukrainian Women’s Organization of Canada, Olha Basarab Branch. This is a cultural and educational women’s organization, a member of the World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s Organizations (WFUWO). You can learn more about the history and development of this women’s organization by visiting torontonka.com.
How It All Began
The story of the Ukrainian Women’s Organization of Canada, Olha Basarab Branch, began in 1930 in Winnipeg. The creation of this women’s union was spurred by tragic circumstances: a large protest rally was organized against Polish terror in Western Ukraine. This event marked the beginning of a dedicated women’s organization. Subsequently, the decision was made to establish their own distinct organization, creating women’s branches and groups across Canada. Over time, its name evolved to become the Ukrainian Women’s Organization of Canada, Olha Basarab Branch.
Only four years later, in 1934, the Ukrainian Gold Cross Fund was founded to support homeless orphans, widows, and individuals with disabilities. In 1948, the organization became a co-founder of the World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s Organizations (WFUWO). Throughout its existence, the women’s organization has made a significant contribution to the development and promotion of Ukrainian culture in Toronto and beyond. In 1950, members of the organization were instrumental in establishing the “Zhinochyi Svit” (The Women’s World) magazine, which continues to be published today. This women’s organization also consistently supports the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada and the Ukrainian Museum of Canada. Notably, the organization is actively involved in fundraising efforts to support Ukraine, especially during times of crisis, such as the ongoing full-scale war.
Who Was Olha Basarab?
As you may have gathered, Olha Mykhailivna Basarab was chosen as the patroness of this women’s organization. In this section, we’ll share a little about this prominent public figure. Olha Basarab was born in 1889 in the village of Pidhoroddia, in the Rohatyn region of Ukraine. Her father was a priest, and her mother was a teacher. Regarding her education, she attended a German school in Silesia and graduated from a lyceum in Peremyshl. She later pursued commercial courses in Vienna and was admitted to medical school. Her civic and political activities are particularly noteworthy. Olha Basarab was an active participant in the Ukrainian Women’s Union and the Soyuz Ukrainok (Union of Ukrainian Women). Between 1918 and 1923, Olha Mykhailivna served as a secretary at the Ukrainian diplomatic mission in Finland and as an accountant for the Embassy of Ukraine in Vienna. However, Olha Basarab is etched in the memory of the Ukrainian people as an intelligence officer and liaison for Colonel Yevhen Konovalets. She was a member of the Ukrainian Military Organization (UVO). In February 1924, Basarab was arrested by Polish police for her involvement with the Ukrainian Military Organization. She was killed while in custody in Lviv, and her death became a powerful symbol of Ukraine’s struggle for independence.
The Ukrainian Women’s Organization of Canada, Olha Basarab Branch, is a prominent women’s association in Toronto dedicated to upholding Ukrainian traditions and culture. The organization was founded with the mission to preserve and foster Ukrainian cultural heritage, language, and traditions among Ukrainian Canadians. Through its dedicated work, the organization champions educational programs, promotes Ukrainian literature, and undertakes many other related activities. That concludes the story of the founding and growth of this significant women’s organization in Toronto. We hope you found this article informative and that it offered some valuable insights.