On March 25th, Belarusians celebrate Freedom Day. It is an unofficial holiday which marks the beginning of Belarus’s statehood. It marks the day when Belarusian Democratic Republic released a declaration of independence in 1918. Belarusians traditionally celebrate Freedom Day with mass marches, rallies, and concerts. These celebrations in Belarus have been regularly accompanied by mass detentions conducted by Lukashenka’s forces.
This year, March 25th is special. Belarusians have stood by their core demands since August 2020 after the stolen presidential election: violence must be stopped, all political prisoners must be freed, new free and fair elections must be held. On this day, expect Belarusians to once again assert their commitment to their demands and their desire to live in a democratic, independent, and peaceful country.
The unwillingness of the regime to accept the will of the people has led to a political crisis. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya called on the people of Belarus to vote for a peaceful resolution of the political crisis through negotiations. The voting takes place on the online platform “Golos” (Voice). On March 25th, the first results of the voting will be announced. Negotiations must be scheduled for May to provide enough time to reach an agreement about the conduct of elections in the fall.
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya calls on international leaders, activists, journalists, and all friends of Belarus to stand in solidarity on Freedom Day, March 25th.
How to show solidarity with Belarusians?
– Take political action. Ask your legislators to initiate and adopt resolutions/proclamations in support of the Belarusian struggle for democracy.
– Hold or participate in a solidarity rally with Belarus in your city (following local Covid-19 restrictions) or organize a symbolic action such as lightening the landmarks in your city.
– Write letters to political prisoners in Belarus or take patronage over one of them.
– Write a tweet/social media post or take a video in support of Belarus with the hashtag #StandWithBelarus.
– Wear white and red colors of the national Belarusian flag.
