Опис події
November 23, 2026, Edmonton will host a special screening of the documentary “Distance to Independence”—a story about young Ukrainians from Canada and the United States who traveled to Ukraine in 1991 to help the country gain independence.
The special guest of the evening will be Akim Galimov—a renowned Ukrainian journalist, documentary filmmaker, and founder of the historical project “Real History.”
After the screening, audience members will have the opportunity to speak with the filmmakers, ask questions, and join a discussion about Ukrainian identity, historical memory, and the role of the diaspora in the struggle for Ukraine’s independence.
🇺🇦 What is the film “Distance to Independence” about?
In 1991, Ukraine stood on the threshold of historic change. After decades of Soviet rule, Ukrainians were given the chance to restore their own independent state.
At this decisive moment, young members of the Ukrainian diaspora from Canada and the United States decided not to stand on the sidelines.
They traveled to Ukraine to personally take part in the events that would forever change its future.
The documentary “The Distance to Independence” tells their story through the participants’ personal memories, unique archival materials, and footage that offers a fresh perspective on the events of 1991.
This is a story not only about the attainment of independence, but also about people who, having been born or raised far from Ukraine, maintained a deep connection to their homeland and decided to take action when it mattered most.
🌍 The Role of the Ukrainian Diaspora in the History of Independence
One of the film’s main themes is the contribution of Ukrainians abroad to the formation of an independent Ukraine.
For many decades, Ukrainian communities in Canada and the United States preserved the language, culture, traditions, and memory of Ukraine, even while the country itself was under Soviet rule.
The events of 1991 marked a turning point when this connection took on special significance.
Young Ukrainians from North America didn’t just support Ukraine from afar—they decided to travel there and become direct participants in historic changes.
Thirty-five years after Ukraine regained its independence, this story resonates more than ever.
Today, as Ukraine is once again forced to defend its freedom, the Ukrainian diaspora continues to play a vital role in supporting the homeland.
The film reminds us that the distance between countries does not necessarily mean a distance between people, their values, and their shared history.
🎤 Meet Akim Galimov and Anna Palenchuk
A special feature of the screening in Edmonton will be the opportunity to speak in person with the creators of the documentary.
Following the film, there will be a discussion and a Q&A session on the topic:
“Between Inherited Memory and Life Experience: Ukraine, Canada, and a Sense of Belonging.”
Participants in the discussion will include:
- Akim Galimov — Ukrainian journalist, documentary filmmaker, and founder of the popular historical project “Real History.”
- Anna Palenchuk — producer of the documentary “The Distance to Independence.”
The guests will discuss issues of Ukrainian identity, the preservation of historical memory, intergenerational connections, and how Ukrainians living abroad feel a sense of belonging to Ukraine.
Viewers will also have the opportunity to ask their own questions and share their thoughts.
📅 Date, Time, and Location
- Date: Monday, November 23, 2026
- Doors open: 6:00 PM
- Screening starts: 6:30 PM
- Location: Muttart Theatre — Stanley A. Milner Library
- Address: 7 Sir Winston Churchill Square NW, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
A discussion with Akim Galimov and Anna Palenchuk will follow the screening.
🎟️ Tickets and Special Discount
Tickets for the special screening are available online via Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/distance-to-independence-edmonton-tickets-2003219310884
🎁 Special Offer: Use promo code UCC5 to get a $5 discount on your ticket.
We recommend purchasing tickets in advance so you don’t miss the opportunity to attend the screening and meet the filmmakers.
💙💛 Why should you attend this screening?
“The Road to Independence” offers a chance to see little-known chapters of Ukrainian history through the eyes of those who lived through them firsthand.
For Edmonton’s Ukrainian community, this event holds special significance, as Canada has been and remains home to one of the largest Ukrainian diasporas in the world.
This is an opportunity to better understand the contributions of previous generations to Ukraine’s independence, hear personal stories, and reflect on the role Ukrainians abroad play today.
We invite Ukrainians in Edmonton and anyone interested in Ukrainian history to a special screening of “The Distance to Independence” on November 23. Come discover this important story, meet the filmmakers, and experience the power of unity among Ukrainians around the world! 🇺🇦
