2025 Memory of the Nation Awards Recognize Five Brave Heroes from Czechia Slovakia and Ukraine
The 2025 Memory of the Nation Awards celebrated five remarkable heroes from Czechia, Slovakia, and Ukraine. These individuals have shown exceptional bravery and commitment to preserving freedom and democracy throughout their lives. Their stories reflect the importance of historical memory and the ongoing struggle for civil rights.
Acknowledging Remarkable Contributions
The ceremony commenced with an inspiring speech from ninety-two-year-old Milena Sedláčková. Sedláčková, who spent two years in prison for gathering illegal information, emphasized the value of faith and resilience in challenging times. Accompanied by her granddaughter Lucia, she highlighted the significance of remembering the past.
Honoring Brave Heroes
- Emil Sedlačko (Slovakia) – At nearly eighty years old, Sedlačko could not attend due to health issues. He courageously resisted the occupying forces in August 1968 and underwent severe interrogations without betraying his fellow activists.
- Jaroslav Vrbenský – This ninety-three-year-old was imprisoned for over a decade due to his efforts to assist persecuted priests. His experiences as a member of the Catholic youth illustrate the themes of action and faith in times of oppression.
- Fedor Gál – An eighty-year-old public activist and Terezin ghetto survivor, Gál played a crucial role in the Velvet Revolution. He actively fought against the political tyranny of former Slovak Prime Minister Vladimir Mečiar, emphasizing the necessity of safeguarding freedom.
- Nadija Kalinčenkovová (Ukraine) – At seventy-three years old, Kalinčenkovová aids displaced individuals and crafts camouflage nets for the Ukrainian army, demonstrating deep dedication to her country amidst ongoing conflict.
The Importance of Participation
The event underscored the message that freedom and democracy require active participation and remembrance. It featured discussions by Post Bellum directors, Sandra Poluková and Mikuláš Kroupa, about their efforts in preserving historical memory. They engage in various projects, including educational initiatives and support for those affected by totalitarian regimes and current challenges in Ukraine.
Recognizing Collective Responsibility
“Our statehood, sovereignty, and national consciousness grow from the legacy of these people. We owe our freedom to them,” Kroupa remarked during the ceremony. He emphasized the responsibility societies carry towards the sacrifices made by these brave individuals.
A Glorious Evening of Remembering
Since its inception in 2010, Post Bellum has recognized over seventy individuals committed to the fight for freedom. This year’s ceremony, attended by prominent figures such as President Petr Pavel and former Slovak President Zuzana Čaputová, highlighted the ongoing legacy of courage against oppression.
The gala featured performances by the Memory of the Nation Orchestra and the Ježek’s Footprints Orchestra, conducted by Matěj Kroupa, enriching the evening with cultural significance.
In a world where liberty is often taken for granted, these awards serve as a poignant reminder of the struggles endured for freedom. The stories of these five heroes are a testament to unwavering hope and resilience in the face of adversity, encouraging future generations to cherish and uphold democratic values.
