The Library’s Zoom subscription gave staff the opportunity to expand who we could invite as program speakers, from only persons living locally to those worldwide. This technology, in addition to the success we have enjoyed with virtual programs for adults since 2020, prompted staff to expand their view of what was possible with library programs and begin to brainstorm how to bring unique and timely perspectives to the Alexandria community. The major challenge of hosting the Ukrainian Voices program was how to connect with Ukrainians, many of whom are currently living in a war zone. The decision was made to record episodes rather than present them live, as multiple guests expressed concern that their presentations would be interrupted by the regular bombing of their Ukrainian cities or regular power outages due to the bombing of Ukrainian power plants. Additionally, as Ukraine is 7 hours ahead of Alexandria, Virginia, recording often took place outside of regular work hours.

The Ukrainian Voices program is innovative as it uses technology to connect Alexandria community members with Ukrainians living across the world. This program allows viewers to hear first-hand accounts of the Russian invasion of Ukraine as it is happening, and learn about modern Ukrainian history from those who participated in it. The news is often presented by persons who not personally involved in the events taking place, and who, by necessity, are placed in a position where their voices and decisions about what to report on supersede those of the people about whom they are reporting. The aim of the Ukrainian Voices program is to give Ukrainians themselves a platform to share their thoughts and experiences with a Western audience.

The achieved outcome of this series of programs was to provide Alexandria City residents with information about Ukraine and the Russian invasion of Ukraine directly from Ukrainians, allowing viewers to develop a deeper understanding of this ongoing international crisis through listening to persons who were experiencing it first-hand. Guests shared their personal experiences of living in Ukraine during the invasion, as well as participating in EuroMaidan and other important events in Ukrainian history, bringing unique perspectives on Ukraine that were not covered in more mainstream media sources. A secondary outcome was to provide Ukrainians with a platform to share their own experiences with a Western audience directly.