On February 20, 2024, ten years of dedication to the Heavenly Hundred Heroes, those who gave their lives in the struggle for the ideals of democracy and the European future. This date not only notes the unbreakable will of the Ukrainian people and its determination in the demands for rights and dignity, but also reminiscent of the tragic events of the past, when peaceful protests on the Maidan grew into a bloody struggle for the future of the country.
On February 20, it was a symbolic important day for Ukraine, full of events of the 2014 Dignity Revolution. In the heart of Kiev, one of the most bloody pages of Ukrainian history took place, when the confrontation between the protesters and security forces of Viktor Yanukovych regime led to the death of Heavenly Hundred Heroes.
The Heavenly Hundred consisted of 107 participants of the Revolution of Dignity and Maidan activists. This term arose during a farewell to the dead in the Kiev Maidan, becoming a symbol of courage and sacrifice.
This tenth anniversary of honoring the Heavenly Hundred Heroes emphasizes the diversity and devotion of those who gave their lives for a dream of democratic and European Ukraine. The participants of the Heavenly Hundred were different in age, nationality, education and views, but they were united by a common desire to see their country free and independent.
Every year, on February 20, Ukraine celebrates the Day of Heavenly Hundred Heroes according to the Presidential Decree, which honors the feat of the Dignity Revolution participants and certifies the memory of Heavenly Hundred Heroes.
The efforts to commemorate the heroes were different: from the creation of the Order of Heavenly Hundred Heroes to the creation of memorial complexes and monuments in different cities of Ukraine. Heroes believe that their feats should inspire creativity and changes in the country.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the importance of the memory of Heavenly Hundred Heroes as an incentive to protect Ukraine's freedom and independence, emphasizing that their dedication has no limits and creates the history of the country.
