UWC commemorates the Day of Dignity and Freedom in Ukraine

Today, Nov. 21, the Ukrainian World Congress (UWC), together with Ukrainians and friends of Ukraine around the world, commemorates the Day of Dignity and Freedom. 

It’s a day that symbolizes the Ukrainian people’s unwavering commitment to democracy, human rights, and their European choice. It was on this day that a popular pro-democratic uprising started in Kyiv after then-President Victor Yanukovych reneged on signing an economic pact with the European Union. 

On this day, nine years apart, two historic revolutions began: the Orange Revolution in 2004 and the Revolution of Dignity in 2013. These events shaped Ukraine’s modern path toward freedom, independence, and Euro-Atlantic integration.

Both movements reflected the Ukrainian people’s desire to live in a country where human rights, freedom of speech, and the will of the people are respected. Peaceful protests united millions across Kyiv and throughout the country, helping to forge the modern Ukrainian nation and laying the foundation for its democratic future.

The Orange Revolution and the Revolution of Dignity became powerful symbols of a nation that is capable of changing its own destiny, defending itself against corruption and authoritarianism, and choosing its own civilizational path.

“The Revolution of Dignity reaffirmed the Ukrainian people’s commitment to live in a free, independent, strong, democratic and European Ukraine. Today, all of Ukraine is one large Maidan, and her brave defenders are fighting for the ideals of the Maidan in a modern war for independence. With the support of our allies, the people of Ukraine will be victorious, just as they were on the Maidans! The fearless and brave Ukrainian people will prevail!” said UWC President Paul Grod.

Both revolutions were not only internal political events but also a strong signal to the world: Ukrainians resolutely rejected any attempts by external forces, including Russia, to regain control over their country.

Twelve years ago, the Revolution of Dignity began as an open expression of Ukrainians’ desire to join the European Union. Despite the voice of the people, the Kremlin-controlled Yanukovych regime resorted to violence, leading to the deaths of over a hundred peaceful protesters, who are now remembered as the Heavenly Hundred.

The UWC expresses gratitude to Ukrainians worldwide who took part in solidarity rallies and demonstrations, sharing the truth about the people’s pursuit of dignity and freedom. 

It’s a struggle that continues today.

Now, as Russia wages a full-scale war against Ukraine, the Ukrainian people’s aspiration for freedom and democracy is more urgent than ever. The Kremlin’s aggression undermines state institutions, devastates the economy, energy sector, and infrastructure, threatens millions of lives, and attempts to subjugate the Ukrainian nation.

The UWC stresses that the international community must firmly support Ukraine, strengthen sanctions against Russia, and provide the necessary assistance to repel the aggressor.

“We thank our international partners for their political, economic, and military support of Ukraine. We call on the world not to stop and to provide the Ukrainian people with everything they need to win this war, defend their freedom, and uphold their right to self-determination,” Grod added.

The UWC urges Ukrainians and friends of Ukraine worldwide to remember today all those defending the country on the frontlines and at home. This is a day of unity, a day to remind the world of the value of democracy and freedom, and a day to stand resolutely against aggression, affirming that Ukrainians will always defend their dignity.

Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the heroes!