Renowned Ukrainian Israeli American to update St. Louis Jewish community on Ukrainian war

Jordan Palmer, Chief Digital Content Officer

As the war in Ukraine continues into its second year, it’s important to many that the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II not be forgotten or become just another story on the evening news or a lost headline. Keeping American Jewish communities up-to-date and in the loop is why Ana Sazonov is coming to St. Louis this week.

Sazonov’s is a name you might not recognize but is one you should make note of. She was recently selected to be on the 2023 Hadassah List of 18 Women who are shaping the future of Zionism. This is because of her tireless work as an advocate for the people of Ukraine and Ukraine’s Jewish community.

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Ana Sazonov

Sazonov was born in Ukraine to a non-Jewish mother and a father who repressed his Jewish identity. She grew up a Ukrainian girl with no knowledge of Judaism or Israel. But after the collapse of the Soviet Union, she learned the truth and made Aliyah to start a new life in Israel.

While serving in the IDF, Sazonov uncovered her Jewish identity and eventually moved to the United States where she became the executive director of the Columbia Jewish Federation in South Carolina.

When war broke out in her native homeland, Sazonvov responded to the call to support her family and country by providing support in any way she could. She became a member of a volunteer mission to help refugees fleeing their homes. Today, she is working with Ukrainian Patriot, a group dedicated to defending Ukraine and those civilians caught in the crossfire.

Sazonov in St. Louis

On Wednesday, June 21, Sazonov will be in St. Louis and will join Federation leaders as they share how St. Louis’ investment in crisis relief since the war began is truly saving lives, and how our support is continuing to impact Ukrainians around the world.

Sazonov will be a featured guest and will update St. Louisans on the current landscape in Ukraine, as the war has begun to ramp up in recent weeks.

An update on Ukraine featuring Ukrainian-American Ana Sazonov
When:
June 21, 2023, at 4:30 p.m.
Where: Jewish Federation of St. Louis, 12 Millstone Campus Drive, 63146
How much: This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required.