MADISON, Ala. (WHNT) -- On Saturday afternoon, dozens of people gathered together to celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day in Madison.

It was August 24th, 1991 when Ukraine became an independent country from the Soviet Union. With an ongoing war against Russia, where Ukraine is defending its independence, event organizers say it is important to celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day.

"We really value our independence, it's so important to us, especially now, when Ukraine is fighting for it's freedom,” organizer and volunteer Yuliya Keener said.

She told News 19 that Ukrainian Independence Day hits close to home for her, because she lost family members in the fight.

"It's very important, especially for me personally because my grandfather and great grandfather literally fought for independ

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