Translators have begun working in Uman to assist Hasidic pilgrims

In the Hasidic pilgrimage area in Uman, interpreters have begun working to assist pilgrims in communicating with Ukrainian law enforcement officials, relevant agencies, and representatives of organizations involved in supporting the pilgrimage.

This was reported by the charitable organization “Uman City Historical and Cultural Center Foundation.”

The interpreters are stationed in areas where the largest number of pilgrims gather during Rosh Hashanah, and they also assist in situations where foreign visitors need clarification, must go through security checks, seek assistance, or resolve logistical issues.

The foundation notes that such support helps prevent misunderstandings between pilgrims and Ukrainian authorities, streamlines communication, and makes the pilgrims’ stay in Uman more organized.

As explained by Iryna Rybnytska, executive director of the charitable organization “Uman Historical and Cultural Center Foundation,” the foundation already has experience organizing such efforts.

“For the third year in a row, we’ve been organizing the work of interpreters in the Hasidic pilgrimage area. This is a very important part of the preparations, because during the mass arrival of pilgrims, many situations arise where quick and clear communication is needed between foreigners, the police, first responders, medical personnel, and other services,” noted Iryna Rybnytska.

According to her, interpreters assist not only with standard organizational matters but also in situations where it is necessary to quickly explain the rules for staying in Ukraine, actions to take during an air raid alert, security screening procedures, or how to contact the relevant services.

“Our goal is for pilgrims to receive the necessary information in a language they understand, and for Ukrainian services to be able to communicate with them quickly and effectively. This reduces the risk of conflicts and misunderstandings and helps maintain order in the pilgrimage area,” added Iryna Rybnytska.

During Rosh Hashanah, thousands of Hasidic pilgrims from around the world traditionally arrive in Uman. That is why language support is a vital component of organizing the pilgrimage, especially under martial law and heightened security measures.

Translators help pilgrims navigate the rules, seek advice, interact with law enforcement and relevant services, and receive up-to-date information during their stay in Uman.

The foundation emphasizes that the work of interpreters is part of a broader support system for pilgrims, which also includes informational materials, a hotline, coordination with Ukrainian authorities, and assistance with organizational matters.

The Charitable Organization “Uman Historical and Cultural Center Foundation” continues to work to ensure that the pilgrimage in Uman proceeds as smoothly and safely as possible, while respecting the needs of both pilgrims and the local community.