The Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) recognizes Vyshyvanka Day (Ukrainian embroidered blouse/shirt day) on every third Thursday in May.
Canadians of Ukrainian background have overcome tremendous obstacles to become a fully integrated and proud component of the overall Canadian fabric of society and Vyshyvanka Day unites generations of Ukrainians.
With a substantial number of Ukrainian students and staff at TCDSB’s Eastern Rite Ukrainian communities of St. Demetrius, St. Josaphat and Josyf Cardinal Slipyj Catholic Schools, and across the TCDSB, we are raising awareness of Vyshyvanka Day.
The method of embroidery used is a form of meditation and has been used to nurture one's mental health. Long winter evenings were spent embroidering garments and cloth - with each stitch is a prayer of protection and healing.
The TCDSB joins the Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario and all TCDSB students, families and friends of Ukrainian heritage in celebrating this special day each year.