Georgia's National Unity Day: History, Events, and Fascinating Facts

This day in Georgia is dedicated to in memory of the dead and suffered for the freedom and happiness of the country in April 1989. At that time, the country began to form as an independent state, and April 9 officially declared a public holiday.

April 1989 in Georgia was marred by tragic events against the backdrop of political disagreements and citizen demonstrations. After Abkhazia announced its intention to secede from the Georgian SSR, more than 10,000 residents went out to protest, demanding that the communists be removed from the government.

The main leaders of the mass protests were Zviad Gamsakhurdia, Merab Kostava, Irakli Tsereteli and Georgi Chanturia. They organized a fundraiser to purchase weapons for the demonstrators, and prepared an appeal to the President and Congress of the United States. It included a request for assistance from the UN and NATO to help Georgia leave the USSR.

At 4 a.m. on April 9, the Allied forces began to disperse the multi-thousand-strong rally, resulting in more than 30 people being killed in a mass crush, and more than 300 injured. According to hospitals, another 4,000 people sought help in the weeks following the rally with various injuries and gas poisoning. After the deaths of civilians, most of whom were women, the government declared mourning. It later resigned altogether, since it was not possible to resolve the demands of the citizens in any other way.

Since then, in memory of the rally participants, Georgia has celebrated National Unity Day, which became a symbol of freedom from Soviet rule.

The main events are held in Tbilisiparliament buildings.On the night of April 8-9 On Rustaveli Avenue, wreaths are laid, candles are lit, and memorial speeches are made next to the memorial to the victims. During the day, official receptions are held, memorial services are held in churches and temples, and flowers are brought to the sites of memorable events.

This date still has great significance for every resident of the country, so on this day all Georgians try to spend time together, emphasizing the unity and strength of spirit of the entire nation.