National Flag Day: A Symbol of Ukrainian Pride
On Saturday, August 23, Ukraine celebrates National Flag Day, a day honoring the historical significance of the national symbol.
This celebration was established to honor the long history of Ukrainian statehood and to foster respect for national symbols. According to the presidential decree dated August 23, 2004, an annual official flag-raising ceremony was instituted in 2009 across the country.
The blue and yellow colors of the flag have a millennia-old history, tracing back to the times of Kievan Rus. In 1848, during the European revolutions, the blue and yellow flag emerged as a symbol of the Ukrainian nation, first raised over the town hall in Lviv.
Following the proclamation of the Ukrainian People's Republic, the flag became the official state symbol. In 1990, the blue and yellow banner officially flew over the city hall in Stryi for the first time.
On August 23, 1991, the blue and yellow flag was brought into the parliament session hall, and on September 4, it was ceremonially raised above the parliament building.
With the onset of Russian aggression, the blue and yellow flag has become a symbol of resilience and the fight for independence.
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President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated citizens on National Flag Day, emphasizing that our land will not be given to the occupiers.
During the ceremonial events, the President highlighted that our flag is a symbol of hope for many living in temporarily occupied territories. He noted that the blue and yellow banner represents the struggle of our heroes who risk their lives for freedom.
The President expressed gratitude to all who fight for Ukraine's independence and stressed the importance of remembering the heroes who have died for our nation.
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The blue and yellow flag symbolizes the dignity and resilience of the Ukrainian people, stated the Minister of Defense.
According to him, the flag is a talisman with which our brave warriors protect Ukrainian land and support those working for the country’s benefit.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs also emphasized that the blue and yellow flag embodies the values upheld by the Ukrainian people, symbolizing freedom and hope.
