TULSA, OK — August 24, 2025
Tulsa’s Ukrainian-American community, together with local supporters, came together on Sunday to mark Ukraine’s Independence Day with an afternoon of remembrance, resilience, and solidarity. The event, hosted at Circle Cinema, drew dozens of attendees who stood in support of Ukraine’s ongoing fight for freedom.
The program opened with a warm reception featuring traditional Ukrainian pastries, welcoming families, friends, and allies from across the city. Guests then gathered for a free screening of the new documentary A Faith Under Siege, a powerful film shedding light on the persecution faced by Christians living under Russian occupation.
“This film has been a spiritual awakening for me. I’ve had several people come up to me and say thank you for coming to Ukraine, please tell this story,” said Tulsan and volunteer chaplain Karl Ahlgren, who is featured in the film. “I actually have the opportunity to speak in churches when I go and my message is about hope,” he said.
Following the screening, the audience joined together in prayer for Ukraine’s defenders, civilians, and all those affected by the war.
The event concluded with a spirited Auto Rally along Riverside Road. Dozens of cars, adorned with blue-and-yellow Ukrainian flags, honked and waved as they passed through Tulsa’s streets—reminding the community that Ukraine still stands strong. Flags were also available for purchase, with all proceeds going directly to support humanitarian relief and frontline needs.
“This day is a reminder that faith and freedom are under attack in parts of Ukraine,” said organizer Ihor Ruban. “By gathering here in Tulsa, we not only honor Ukraine’s independence but also ensure that the voices of those suffering under occupation are not forgotten.”
The Independence Day commemoration was made possible thanks to the dedication of Tulsa’s Ukrainian community, Circle Cinema, Ukraine Action Plan and local supporters of peace and religious freedom.
