Scott Hayes | [email protected]
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Jasper-Yellowhead Museum celebrated Ukrainian Independence Day last Thursday with a reception for an exhibit delving into the history of Ukrainians in Jasper.
The aptly-titled exhibit called Ukrainians in Jasper: Past and Present has been on display in the Alcove Gallery for a few weeks already.聽
"Ukrainians in Jasper: Past and Present is a reflection on the wheel of life and history, and all the things that people value the most: its culture, family, traditions and, of course, the support of the community," said event co-host Anastasia Suzdalova.
"The history of Ukrainians in Jasper starts with the dark past as them and many Eastern Europeans were imprisoned in Dominion Park in March of 1916 during the [First World] war," said co-host Nathan Daniel.
Between 1914 and 1920, thousands of Ukrainians and other Europeans were imprisoned, deemed "enemy aliens" by the state and sent to any of 24 internment camps across the country.
With all of their freedom and possessions removed, they were forced into heavy labour on federal government projects. Conditions were abysmal, and they were treated abhorrently.
The Prykh-Ukrainian Internment Memorial Plaque can be found along Old Fort Point Road to the south shore of Lac Beauvert. Nearby is the old internment camp site found in a small, partially forested patch where only the footpaths of those 200 former detainees remain.
After 1920, the political environment changed and with it so changed the Ukrainians view of their new home.
"This was a bleak time for Ukrainians and Eastern Europeans, but life went on and many people were coming to Alberta to settle and to start their new life in a new country seeing new opportunities. They wanted, of course, to build their destiny here. Jasper became the refuge for many Ukrainian people," Suzdalova said.
"Thanks to the support of the local community, they were able to preserve their cultural traditions, build businesses and find a new home in this country," Daniel said. "This exhibition is a demonstration of Canadian diversity and inclusion."
The exhibit shows some interesting artifacts, some handmade embroidered clothing and some artistic objects. There is the image of Pokrova, Ukraine鈥檚 historic patron of armed services personnel, painted on the lid of an ammunition box, hinting at what is top of mind for Ukrainians and their supporters all around the world.
"Once again, the Ukrainians are supported by Canadians as Russia has again repeated history and invaded Ukraine last year," Suzdalova said. "Our exhibition is dedicated to independency and I would like to congratulate you all on Ukraine's Independence Day."
Posters and news articles also show how fondly Ukrainians took to the ski hills bringing their culture and much kobasa to the mountains.
Museum general manager Roberta Kehler said that Ukrainian influence in Jasper is now and has always been very strong.
"They have brought many aspects of a very rich and beautiful culture with them from across the land. Unfortunately, it has not always been particularly appreciated, which is why exhibits like this are so important."
The exhibit will remain on display until Sept. 15.
