February 20 is celebrated in Ukraine as the Day of the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred, the Day of the Beginning of Russian Aggression against Ukraine, and the Day of Social Justice. In the world, the World Day of Social Justice, the World Information Management Day, the International Day of Anthropology, the International Day of People Who Overcame Alcoholism, and the International Day of Smoking Pipes are celebrated.
Also, on this day in different years, events took place that influenced the course of world history, the development of states and society, leaving a significant mark in the memory of mankind.
Day of Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred
Probably, there is not a single compatriot who does not remember the events that took place in Kyiv and throughout the country at the end of 2013 – at the beginning of 2014. The Day of Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred, celebrated on February 20, is a symbol of honoring the memory of people who gave their lives for freedom, democracy and the European future of Ukraine.
This day was established by the decree of the President of Ukraine in 2015 as a sign of respect for the feat of the participants of the Revolution of Dignity. February 20, 2014 was one of the most tragic days of the Maidan, when the largest number of protesters died. They became a symbol of the people’s struggle for dignity and justice.
The Day of Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred is celebrated with various events throughout the country. Memorial events, laying of flowers at monuments to the dead, screenings of documentaries and thematic exhibitions are organized. Memory lessons are held in educational institutions, where young people learn about those events and their significance for the independence of Ukraine.
Interesting facts
Heavenly Hundred is the general name of activists who died during the Revolution of Dignity, defending democratic values.
The youngest hero of the Heavenly Hundred was Nazar Voytovych – he was only 17 years old.
In 2014, more than 100 dead protesters were posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine.
Memorials and commemorative plaques have been erected in many cities of Ukraine to commemorate the victims.
In Kyiv, a Memorial has been created on the Alley of Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred, and the Museum of the Revolution of Dignity is also planned to be built.
The day of the start of Russian aggression against Ukraine
This date is a symbol of Ukraine’s struggle for its independence and sovereignty in the face of Russian expansion. The annexation of Crimea began with the transfer to the peninsula of Russian military units without identification marks, which later received the name “little green men”. In parallel, an information war aimed at justifying the annexation was unfolding, and already on March 16, 2014, a so-called “referendum” was organized, which contradicted Ukrainian legislation and international law.
The day of the start of Russian aggression against Ukraine is a reminder that the war against our country did not begin on February 24, 2022, but much earlier. Since 2014, Ukraine has experienced a series of attacks, including the occupation of Crimea, the military conflict in Donbas, and a large-scale invasion.
Interesting facts
The UN and most countries of the world did not recognize the annexation of Crimea, condemning Russia’s actions in the relevant resolutions.
On February 20, 2014, “For the return of Crimea” was engraved on the Russian medal, which officially confirms the beginning of the aggression even before the events on the Maidan.
Russian military personnel involved in the operation received awards and promotions for their participation in the annexation of Crimea.
Since 2014, a number of sanctions aimed at limiting its economic opportunities have been introduced against Russia.
Ukraine filed lawsuits in international courts to hold Russia accountable for war crimes and violations of sovereignty.
Social Justice Day
This day is an important date in the calendar of Ukraine, symbolizing the desire for equality, solidarity and harmony in society. This day is designed to remind of the need to overcome social barriers, ensure equal opportunities for all citizens and create a fair Ukrainian society.
Social justice covers a wide range of issues, including the fight against poverty, protection of human rights, ensuring decent work, equal access to education and health services. In Ukraine, this topic takes on special importance due to the socio-economic challenges facing the state, including the problems of unemployment, gender inequality and social protection of vulnerable population groups.
Interesting facts
In Ukraine, issues of social justice are regulated by a number of laws, including the Constitution, the Labor Code and the Law “On Social Services”.
According to international studies, the level of social justice in the country largely depends on the availability of education and the effectiveness of the state policy on social protection.
The concept of social justice has its roots in philosophical teachings, in particular the works of Plato, Aristotle, and John Rawls, which substantiated the principles of equality and fair distribution of benefits.
World Day of Social Justice
This day began to be celebrated on November 26, 2007, when the UN General Assembly declared that February 20 would be celebrated annually as the World Day of Social Justice. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness of social inequality and the need to create conditions for equal opportunities in all spheres of life.
Social justice covers such aspects as the fight against poverty, ensuring human rights, access to quality education and medicine, equal opportunities for all people regardless of their origin, gender or social status. This day reminds the world community of the need to maintain social cohesion and fair distribution of resources.
Interesting facts
The idea of this day arose from the initiative of the International Labor Organization, which emphasized the importance of decent work for social justice.
According to the UN, more than 700 million people in the world live below the poverty line, which emphasizes the urgency of the problem.
Economic inequality remains one of the key global threats, with the world’s richest 10% owning more than 50% of the total wealth.
Governments of many countries adopt social protection policies aimed at supporting vulnerable categories of the population.
Technological progress also plays a significant role in social justice, as the digital divide between developed and developing countries affects opportunities for access to education and employment.
World Information Management Day
This day is designed to draw attention to the importance of effective information management in modern society, where digital technologies play a key role in all areas of life.
Information management covers a wide range of issues, including the collection, processing, storage and distribution of data. Effective management of information flows helps to make informed decisions, protect personal data, reduce the risks of cyber threats and increase the productivity of organizations.
As part of the World Information Management Day, international conferences, webinars, round tables and trainings are held, where experts discuss new technologies, challenges in the information environment and digital security strategies.
Interesting facts
According to research, more than 2.5 quintillion bytes of information are generated every day in the world, which emphasizes the need for effective data management.
Cyber security is one of the main components of information management, as the number of cyber attacks increases every year.
Large companies spend significant resources on the development of artificial intelligence systems that automate the processes of information processing and data analysis.
The implementation of blockchain technologies significantly improves the security and transparency of information management.
Organizations that effectively manage information resources increase competitiveness and optimize internal processes.
International Day of Anthropology
This day is designed to emphasize the importance of the science of anthropology in understanding human nature, culture and social processes. This holiday is an opportunity to draw attention to the achievements of anthropology and its influence on various spheres of life.
Anthropology studies humanity in all its aspects, including cultural, social, biological, and linguistic development. This science helps to explain the evolution of man, the traditions of different peoples, the mechanisms of social change and the interaction of cultures in the global world.
Interesting facts
Anthropology encompasses four main fields: cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, archeology and linguistic anthropology.
The researches of anthropologists helped to reveal the origin of modern man and his migration routes around the world.
In the 20th century, anthropology contributed to the understanding of many cultural phenomena, including the role of rituals, mythology, and social structures in various societies.
Archaeological excavations are an important part of anthropological science and help reconstruct historical events through artifacts and remnants of ancient civilizations.
Modern anthropologists use advanced technologies such as DNA analysis and 3D modeling to study ancient human remains and reconstruct historical processes.
International Day of people who have overcome alcoholism
This day is a symbol of willpower, endurance and desire for a healthy lifestyle. It is designed to support those who have overcome addiction, as well as draw society’s attention to the problems of alcoholism and its consequences.
Alcoholism is a serious social and medical problem that affects not only the addicts themselves, but also their families and society in general. Overcoming this addiction requires a comprehensive approach that includes family support, specialized therapy, and self-help. Many people overcome alcoholism through Alcoholics Anonymous programs, medical treatment, and their own inner strength.
Interesting facts
One of the most effective programs for combating alcoholism is the 12-step program, which was started by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in 1935.
According to the WHO, about 3 million people worldwide die each year due to alcohol abuse, which accounts for 5.3% of all deaths.
Alcohol addiction is not only physical, but also psychological in nature, so successful recovery requires changes in the way of thinking and behavior.
People who have given up alcohol often become volunteers and mentors for those still in treatment.
Society plays an important role in supporting those who decide to get rid of alcohol addiction by creating favorable conditions for a sober lifestyle.
International Pipe Smoking Day
This holiday is dedicated to the culture of pipe smoking, its history and traditions. This day unites pipe smoking connoisseurs around the world and emphasizes the social and ritual significance of this process.
Pipe smoking has deep historical roots and was common among many peoples. The tradition is believed to have originated with Native American peoples who used pipes during rituals and ceremonies. Later, pipe smoking became popular in Europe and other parts of the world, becoming a symbol of peace, reflection and a sophisticated lifestyle.
On this day, meetings of pipe smokers, tobacco tastings, lectures on the history and traditions of this occupation are organized. Many collectors display their unique pipes and enthusiasts share tips on how to care for them.
Interesting facts
Pipe smoking has a history of thousands of years and has played a significant role in many cultures, particularly among Native American tribes where the pipe was used for spiritual rituals.
One of the most famous supporters of pipe smoking is Winston Churchill, who often combined smoking a pipe with discussing important state issues.
Smoking a pipe is considered less harmful than cigarettes because pipe tobacco usually contains no added chemicals and is less likely to be inhaled into the lungs.
Cradles are made from a variety of materials, including briar, clay, meerschaum, and corn.
In many countries, there are clubs for pipe smokers, where contests are held for the longest smoking of one portion of tobacco.
Historical events on this day
1649 – Bohdan Khmelnytskyi started negotiations with representatives of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth regarding the definition of the borders of the Zaporozhye army, which became an important step in the struggle for the autonomy of Ukrainian lands.
1666 – the city of Montreal was founded, which over time turned into one of the largest economic and cultural centers of Canada.
1872 – in New York, on Fifth Avenue, the building of the Metropolitan Museum of Art opened, which became one of the most famous art galleries in the world, which stores thousands of exhibits from different eras and cultures.
1872 – an electric elevator was patented in the USA, which became an important step in the development of modern high-rise buildings.
1922 – The Vilnius Sejm decided to join Vilnius and part of southeastern Lithuania to Poland, which caused long-term territorial disputes between Lithuania and Poland.
1939 – Prime Minister of Ireland Eamon de Valera announced the neutrality of the country in the Second World War, which was maintained until its end.
1940 – the iconic animated couple – Tom and Jerry, who became the favorites of several generations of viewers around the world, appeared on the screens for the first time.
1962 – the American astronaut John Glenn made three revolutions around the Earth on the ship “Friendship-7”, which became an important event in the history of space exploration.
1992 – The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine decided to celebrate the Independence Day of Ukraine on August 24, which fixed the date when Ukraine officially declared its independence in 1991.
1992 – the Premier League was founded in England, which replaced the Football League and became one of the most prestigious football leagues in the world.
1998 – 15-year-old American figure skater Tara Lipinski won the Winter Olympics in Nagano, becoming the youngest champion in the history of the Olympic Games.
1999 – the former Prime Minister of Ukraine Pavlo Lazarenko was detained at the New York airport, which was the beginning of his international court cases.
2002 – the publishing house “School Publishing House” was founded in Kharkiv, which became famous for publishing educational and children’s literature.
