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WHY UKRAINIANS SPEAK RUSSIAN? It does not make them Russian
Today, on February 21st, we commemorate International Mother Language Day, a momentous occasion dedicated to honoring linguistic diversity, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting multilingualism worldwide.
Language is more than a mere tool of communication; it is the essence of our identity, our culture, and our heritage. As we celebrate this day, we usually reflect on the richness of languages that adorn our world map, each one a testament to the ingenuity, resilience, and beauty of human expression.
Let’s talk about the Ukrainian language today.
For centuries, the Ukrainian language has faced persistent suppression and bans imposed by Russia, Poland, and other countries, marking a tumultuous history of linguistic repression. Throughout the ages, the Ukrainian people have strived to preserve their native language, a symbol of their identity and cultural heritage. However, the shadows of linguistic oppression have loomed large over Ukraine, mostly cast by the policies and actions of the Russian authorities.
The history of bans on the Ukrainian language spans centuries, representing a systematic effort to undermine Ukrainian culture and identity. From imperial decrees to Soviet-era policies, the suppression of Ukrainian language and culture has been a recurring theme in the tumultuous relationship between Ukraine and Russia.
Despite the passage of time and changing political landscapes, the struggle for the recognition and promotion of the Ukrainian language continues to this day. Modern-day Ukraine grapples with the remnants of historical linguistic oppression, as Russia's influence persists in various spheres of Ukrainian society.
In contemporary Ukraine, efforts to promote and protect the Ukrainian language remain paramount. The language serves as a cornerstone of national identity and unity, embodying the rich tapestry of Ukrainian culture and history. However, challenges persist as Ukraine strives to assert its linguistic sovereignty in the face of external pressures.
These efforts are important today, especially because today Putin is aggressively suppressing the Ukrainian language in the Ukrainian territories he illegally occupies. Just as in the Soviet era, Putin wants to squash Ukraine’s language and culture, and he is doing so wherever his troops control Ukrainian territory.
By
Olena Liashenko
Creative Director of the U.S.-Ukraine Foundation
