May 18: Remembering Crimean Tatars Vyshyvanka Day

What is Vyshyvanka Day? Event: Protecting Crimean Tatars by CEPA

Remembering Crimean Tatars & Vyshyvanka Day

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has posted to his social media channels to commemorate 18 May as a day of remembrance for Crimean Tatar people forcibly moved by Soviet authorities, as well as Vyshyvanka day (third Thursday of May), when Ukraine celebrates the history of its traditional embroidered clothes. He said:

This year, the two meanings are united by one date, 18 May. 79 years ago on this day, the Soviet authorities began deporting the Crimean Tatar people. A people they wanted to erase. Deprive of their homes, deprive of the right to life. But the people survived. And they will live freely.

Today, I am wearing a special vyshyvanka with ornaments that symbolise the unity of the Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar peoples. Symbols of our strength and our desire to live in our home.

Let this year’s Vyshyvanka Day in Ukraine be a reminder of what our people have been through and how strong our culture is. Eternal memory to all our people whose lives were taken by totalitarian regimes.

My Vyshyvanka

This is a very special vyshyvanka gifted to me by a close friend who has been working diligently for Ukraine and transatlantic security for over fifteen years. My friend has taught me more than they will every know. When this gorgeous vyshyvanka arrived, I was deeply touched. It is hand embroidered on linen, and the picture doesn’t do it justice at all.

I’m wearing it today for all my Ukrainian friends protecting their families, homes and nation, and to celebrate Ukrainian culture.

Protecting Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian Culture 

May 18, 2023 at 11:00 am to 12:00 pm ET Virtual Event

Event Overview

Crimeans and Ukrainians continue to fight to preserve their culture and heritage in occupied Ukraine.

After the illegal occupation of Crimea in 2014, Russia continues to pursue its cruel campaign to erase the culture of all Ukrainian citizens. From destroying heritage centers to forcibly deporting children, the Kremlin continues committing crimes against Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian culture, language and traditions.
 
On May 18, 2023 - the Day of Remembrance of Crimean Tatar Deportation - experts will discuss Russia’s attempts at cultural erasure and the international community’s response to protection of Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar cultural heritage in temporary occupied Crimea.