Day of Prosperity and Freedom

Friends, today Ukrainians celebrate the Day of Prosperity and Freedom!

On this day, we recall two important events that shook the newest history of Ukraine - the 2004 Orange Revolution and the 2013 Revolution of Dignity. The Day of Merit and Liberty became a kind of successor to the celebration of the Liberty Day celebrated in honor of the Orange Revolution from 2005 to 2011 on November 22, but was subsequently abolished by the decree of Viktor Yanukovych.

And, of course, on November 21, 2013, the first protest actions on Maidan began in response to the decision of the then authorities to end the course on European integration.

I think that you now remember the events of the Revolution of Dignity as if they were unfolding yesterday. The country was tired of the dominance of corruption, constant theft, the tyranny of law enforcement agencies, neglect of human rights and decided to say no, to fight for the future for themselves and their descendants. It took a little time and blood was spilled on peaceful rallies. Then the revolution became different, all-embracing, general one. Bloodshed has become a definite symbol of the government's desire to suppress those who have a different stance. Beating students, burning tires, gunpowder, Molotov cocktails, Berkut, snipers, shooting and "Heavenly hundred" - all these terrible things somehow symbolize the events of the Revolution of Dignity. One of the most tragic and most necessary events in the history of modern Ukraine. Three months of protests, 106 dead and more than 2,000 wounded - that's it, the terrible price that had to be paid.

This day should be crocheted forever in our memory in honor of those who gave their lives for changes in Ukraine. The Orange Revolution and the Revolution of Dignity were the first impetus for us to never return to the past, to fight for the future – independent and free. The process of change is still ongoing. But despite the ups and downs, joy and disappointment, victories and losses, the process that started then must come to an end. Because we are responsible for the kind of state in which our descendants will live and we must make every effort, unite, and work for the benefit of our country.

I wish you all strength, courage, patience. Stay honest with yourself and your Motherland and never despair! The eternal memory for all those who perished in order for us to live better.