On Saturday, May 23, Ukraine marks the Day of Heroes, a commemorative occasion established to honor Ukrainian defenders who fought and continue to fight for the country’s freedom and independence – from past generations to the present day.
According to Ukrinform, the Ukrainian Institute of National Memory notes that the idea of Heroes Day originated within the Ukrainian nationalist movement. The holiday was first officially introduced by a resolution of the Second Grand Assembly of the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists, held in Kraków in April 1941. The resolution designated May 23 as the “Day of Heroes of the Revolution.”
The date was chosen deliberately. In May, under controversial circumstances, ideologue of Ukrainian independence Mykola Mikhnovsky died. On May 23 and May 25 respectively, leaders of the Ukrainian liberation movement Yevhen Konovalets and Symon Petliura were assassinated.
During and after World War II, the Day of Heroes was observed by members of the Ukrainian liberation movement. Members and youth branches of the OUN held ceremonial gatherings decorated with flags and portraits of Mikhnovsky, Konovalets, and Petliura. The observances included moments of silence for fallen heroes, speeches, readings of official messages, and oaths taken by new members.
