Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “It seems that almost all of us remember this day from childhood, when the whole village went to the cemetery, families prepared food for the ancestors, and adults spoke about those who are gone but still remain close. Every family had its own way of observing it, but the meaning was the same – to remember our loved ones and feel their presence.
Dziady is an ancient Belarusian tradition. On this day, people invited their ancestors to the table, left food and a place for them, and lit candles. It was believed that the souls came to visit – to see and listen to how their children and grandchildren were living. As long as this ritual lives, so does our connection with those who came before us.
Ask your parents or grandparents how they celebrated Dziady. Tell your children about our customs. Show them how our ancestors did it and pass this knowledge on. Belarusian culture is a living force, full of depth and mystery. And while the regime tries to erase everything Belarusian from our country, we can do what depends on us – not only remember but also carefully preserve it.
Remember your loved ones today. Even if you cannot visit their graves – light a candle, say their names, and give them a moment of silence.
Do not forget Belarusian traditions – pass them to your children and keep the memory in your heart. They remind us that Belarusians are truly one big family. We remember not only our ancestors but also those who were killed by the regime, who gave their lives for Belarus, who fought for Ukraine’s freedom and for the right to be free. This memory is our root and our bond with one another”.
