A Thought Experiment from Ukrainian Patriot Founder and CEO, Lana Niland
Having spent last two+ weeks in April 2025 travelling throughout the United States, to amazing places like Washington, DC; Applebay, Wisconsin; and Cambridge, Massachusetts; I have since landed myself in a cosy corner of Canada. It has been a fascinating journey, especially considering the current political reality found in North America. Below is an attempt to put thoughts to paper—a thought experiment in democracy, responsibility, and global unity.
In the first days of April, Washington saw the collection of interested parties from across the country coming together to talk about how Americans (and in my case, American-registered NGOs) could be more influential with their state representatives on the Ukraine question. I sat through various training sessions on the best way to approach senators and their staffers; I listened to what those who have been in similar situations previously talk about was best to focus on (and what to leave out); and in the early morning hours, I ran the streets of this incredible city, in awe at the stone structures that house the democratic process. I left inspired, and equally disappointed: so much intelligence, so much affluence, so much potential. And, for various reasons, an inability to hear the “other”, despite him, or her, or they, standing right next to us.
Applebay, and Wisconsin in general, produced a different side of the country, one softer, less cutthroat, and very interested in family. I got to spend time with the Chairwoman of Ukrainian Patriot’s American-registered entity; a woman who ran for state office (and lost); a woman who has no Ukrainian roots whatsoever but has stood by my side—and Ukraine’s, for the last three+ years. We spoke to media outlets about the situation in Ukraine, and a small gathering at a local school, with further media stories to follow. And I got to run with her two dogs. I left feeling cared for and listened to. The question remains, however: where will those words land?
Cambridge, and specifically Harvard, in the immortal words of Jim Morrison, lit my fire. I got to spend time in the company of intelligent humans, not only from all over the country but all over the world, investing in their futures of public administration and public policy—literally, our future leaders. I spent time in classes on Moral Leadership, a master class on Executive Presence—and specifically on “how to find your voice”—and finally a sit-in on a makeshift US Congress, where students presented bills that may someday—maybe tomorrow—make their way into writing. Equally important, I spent part of my time presenting about my own experience in Ukraine, and why it should remain important to anyone who occupies space on this earth. I left, incidentally, at the same time the school was demonstrating its independence, proudly part of a group of people determined toward continued self-independence.
Now, I find myself in Canada, a country preparing itself for a new leader, where I have watched national debates, listened to local arguments, and will, as a citizen of this great nation, make my own decision about the next best step in the democratic process.
Each of these locations, and the experiences therein, have provided a deeper understanding of the current political reality. Each contribute to this thought experiment below. And so…
Imagine a world where the democratic process is not just a system but a living, breathing testament to human dignity. In countries like the United States and Canada, you are privileged to live under the rule of law—a legal framework that, despite its imperfections, has evolved over centuries to uphold justice and fairness. This system is not merely a set of rules; it is a reflection of our collective values and our commitment to governance that serves the people.
In these democracies, the power to elect officials rests with the people. We choose those who represent us, entrusting them with the responsibility to honour the promises made during campaigns. However, this trust is not unconditional. If elected officials stray from their commitments or fail to act in the public’s best interest, it becomes our duty—not just our right—to hold them accountable. Democracy is not a passive experience; it requires active participation and vigilance from its citizens.
Respect is the cornerstone of this engagement. It is easy to become entrenched in our own viewpoints, but true progress comes from understanding and respecting differing perspectives. Engaging in civil discourse, listening actively, and seeking common ground are essential practices. By educating one another and embracing diverse opinions, we enrich our communities and strengthen the democratic fabric that binds us.
Apathy, on the other hand, is democracy’s silent adversary. When citizens disengage, they relinquish their power and allow others to shape the future. Apathy breeds more apathy, creating a cycle that weakens the very institutions designed to protect our freedoms. As history has shown, when people become indifferent to the political process, they open the door to authoritarianism and injustice.
Protest is a powerful tool in a democracy, but it must be wielded responsibly. Legal and peaceful demonstrations are vital expressions of dissent and can lead to meaningful change. However! For protest to translate into progress, it must be accompanied by a framework that not only represents the collective will but that also operates within the bounds of the law, and provides realistic steps toward positive change. Disruption alone is not enough to cause this transformation—constructive engagement and reform are necessary next steps.
Looking beyond our borders, we see the stark realities faced by nations like Ukraine. For more than three years, Ukraine has been embroiled in a brutal conflict, with its sovereignty and democratic institutions under siege. The war has not only devastated the nation but also served as a grim reminder of what can happen when the principles of democracy are undermined. Ukraine’s struggle underscores the importance of safeguarding our own democratic processes and standing in solidarity with those who fight for freedom elsewhere.
Having called Ukraine home for nearly 22 years, it is my view that the international community, particularly democratic nations like Canada and the United States, have a moral obligation to support Ukraine and other nations striving for democratic governance. This support is not just about providing aid; it is about demonstrating a commitment to the values that underpin our societies. By working together, we can create a world where democracy is not the exception but the norm—a world where unity prevails over division, and cooperation triumphs over conflict.
Democracy is a living entity that requires our active participation, respect for differing views, and unwavering commitment to justice. It is a privilege to live in societies where the rule of law prevails, but with this privilege comes the responsibility to engage, to hold our leaders accountable, and to work toward a more just and unified world. The challenges we face are significant, but through collective effort and shared values, there is no limit to what we can achieve.
My humble ask is that you take this responsibility seriously. You have every opportunity to live in the world you want: the challenge is to continually and actively ensure that it is the kind of place you are proud to call home.
Light and love.
See you soon.
LNN
