Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Political Repressions
October 30, Wednesday
In Russia
In Russia, the Day of Remembrance for Victims of Political Repression is annually celebrated on October 30. This date was established in 1991 by the Resolution of the Supreme Soviet of the RSFSR. October 30 as a memorial day arose back in 1974, when political prisoners in Soviet camps began to hold hunger strikes and protests in the struggle for their rights. Subsequently, this date became a symbol of resistance to political repression and the memory of millions of people who were subjected to unfair accusations, deportations, exiles, arrests and executions during the years of Stalin's repressions and other periods.
How it is celebrated
Laying flowers and wreaths. On this day, ceremonies are held at monuments to the victims of repression, such as the Solovetsky Stone memorial in Moscow or the monument in St. Petersburg.
The "Return of Names" campaign. One of the most significant traditions is the reading of the names of the victims of repression at various public venues.
Memorial events. Lectures, exhibitions and conferences dedicated to historical events and the fates of the repressed are held in museums, libraries and educational institutions.
Prayers and memorial services. Churches hold services in memory of the dead.
In other countries
Ukraine. The Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Political Repression is celebrated on the third Sunday of May. It is dedicated to those who suffered during the years of Soviet repression, in particular, the Ukrainian intelligentsia and nationalists.
Kazakhstan. The Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Political Repression and Famine is celebrated on May 31. It is dedicated to the tragic events of collectivization, mass famine and political repression.
Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Political Repressions in other years
- 2021 October 30, Saturday
- 2022 October 30, Sunday
- 2023 October 30, Monday
- 2025 October 30, Thursday