Day of Dignity and Freedom

Each year on 21 November, Ukraine marks the Day of Dignity and Freedom. The holiday was established to commemorate the beginning of two landmark events in the country’s modern history: the Orange Revolution of 2004 and the Revolution of Dignity of 2013. It symbolizes the strong spirit of the Ukrainian people and their unwavering readiness to defend their freedom.

This day is not only a remembrance of the events that changed our state. It is a reminder that freedom is never given — it is earned. It is upheld by people who can say “no” to injustice, who are capable of resisting and being a source of light when darkness seems dense and impenetrable.

To honour the courage and memory of those who defended Ukraine’s democratic values and sovereignty — on the Maidan and on the frontline — the Karazin community gathered to lay flowers at the memorial stands dedicated to fallen Karazin members. This ceremony became an important gesture of respect and gratitude, as well as an opportunity to remember those who contributed to the struggle for Ukraine’s independence and future. Among the fallen heroes are our colleagues, friends, teachers, students — those who once walked these same corridors, dreamed, studied, laughed, and planned their future. Their names are forever inscribed in the history not only of the university but of the entire country.

Today, we recall their deeds and reflect on our own responsibility — to the past, the present, and the future that we create every day. Karazin University continues to be a space of freedom of thought, critical reflection, dignity, and humanity — the very values for which our heroes gave their lives.

We bow our heads in their memory. And once again, we affirm: Dignity and Freedom are our choice. And this choice we make every day.