Black Ribbon Day
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Where is Black Ribbon Day observed?
Black Ribbon Day is an internationally observed occasion. Many countries, including the European Union, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, Canada, the United States of America, and more, observe this day annually.
Who is Black Ribbon Day observed by?
Black Ribbon Day is mainly observed by people living in countries that are part of the European Union and Canada. People all over the world observe this remembrance day as well.
When did Black Ribbon Day first start?
Black Ribbon Day was officially designated sometime in 2008-2009.
Who started Black Ribbon Day?
In 1986, Canadian refugees and other Western communities of Soviet Union refugees played a significant role in establishing the remembrance day. Later, a group of Central and Eastern European activists and former political prisoners, along with Václav Havel and Joachim Gauck, proposed the idea of an official European Remembrance Day, which the European Parliament formally declared in 2008-2009.
History And Timeline
Black Ribbon Day was chosen to be observed on August 23, since this date coincided with the signing of a 1939 non-aggression pact between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany known as the ‘Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact.’ Central and Eastern European refugees living in Canada at the time organized a number of peaceful protests on both sides of the Iron Curtain to draw attention to the widespread human rights violations committed by Soviet bloc authorities.
The annual rallies were held on August 23, the anniversary of the infamous 1939 Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany.
Approximately 2 million people on August 23, 1989, formed a human chain stretching over 375 mi (603.5 km) across the Baltic republics. This protest, known as the Baltic Way, was a watershed moment in the Baltic states' struggle for independence from the Soviet Union.
Black Ribbon Day Origin
This time period of the Cold War era experienced many protests, among which the idea of Black Ribbon Day rose.
'80sEstablishment Of Black Ribbon Day
The term 'Black Ribbon Day' was coined by Markus Hess, who belongs to the Estonian Central Council in Canada. A black ribbon is considered a symbol of protest.
1985Recognition
The idea of using the anniversary of the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact as Black Ribbon Day was given by David Somerville.
February 1986First Campaign
The first campaign was launched, demonstrations were held in 21 western cities on August 23, 1986.
August 1986Revolution Of 1989
Black Ribbon Day was recognized to protest against the communist regime in Russia, which led to the Revolution of 1989.
1989Traditions And Customs
Countries in various parts of the world observe Black Ribbon Day in commemoration of the victims of Stalinism and Nazism. Many resolutions have been passed in support of Black Ribbon Day.
Ways To Observe Black Ribbon Day
One can observe Black Ribbon Day by simply remembering those who suffered and hoping they rest in peace. This day should be observed as a symbol of living in a world that is peaceful and away from destructive regimes.
Facts And Stats
- Entities like the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar People and the World Jewish Congress annually observe Black Ribbon Day.
- Around 50,000 people joined hands in a human chain called the Freedom Way on Black Ribbon Day in 2020 to express solidarity with the 2020 Belarusian protests and support democracy.
- As the Soviet Union fell apart in 1991, Black Ribbon Day rallies were held in as many as 56 cities worldwide.
When was the first time Black Ribbon Day came into actual reality?
Black Ribbon Day was officially recognized by the European Union sometime between 2008 and 2009.
Who devised Black Ribbon Day?
The term 'Black Ribbon Day' was coined by Markus Hess, based on black ribbons' being a symbol of protest.
What is the significance of Black Ribbon Day?
Black Ribbon Day commemorates the victims of fascist and communist regimes.This national day allows the world to pay their respects, keep in mind the importance of our human rights, and that such history does not repeat itself.
What are some of the benefits of Black Ribbon Day?
This day is dedicated to paying our respects and remembering the victims of totalitarian regimes, mainly Stalinist, Nazi, communist, and fascist regimes.
When Is This Day Celebrated
- Saturday, August 22, 2020
- Sunday, August 22, 2021
- Monday, August 22, 2022
- Tuesday, August 22, 2023
- Thursday, August 22, 2024
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