We are stronger than our walls!

On World Vyshyvanka Day, the Department of History and Philosophy launched a patriotic online flash mob for students and graduates of its programmers under the symbolic slogan «We are stronger than our walls!». The organisers invited everyone to share photos of themselves wearing their embroidered shirts, as the traditional Ukrainian shirt, with its archaic symbols, coded signs and centuries-old history, represents a living, unbreakable link between generations that sustains us in times of the greatest trials.

Both the department’s lecturers and students and graduates actively joined this heart-warming and vitally important initiative.

Today, our students and graduates of the educational programmers ‘Secondary Education (History and Civic Education)’ and ‘History’ (Bachelor’s level), as well as ‘Secondary Education (History)’ and ‘History’ (Master’s level), are scattered across various corners of Ukraine and the world, representing the distinct character of many regions. That is precisely why the flash mob turned into a veritable virtual map of Ukrainian traditions. The photographs sparkled with a kaleidoscope of colours — from classic whites and stark blacks to modern, vibrant hues, whilst the eye was delighted by a variety of patterns: from crisp geometric designs to lush floral motifs.

This event proved once again that we have strong ethno-cultural markers that unite us, breaking down all borders, overcoming distances, differences in age or academic titles.

The organisers sincerely hope that this flash mob, like most of the events they have initiated, will grow into a wonderful annual university tradition that will expand year on year.

The current situation has forced us to become a ‘university without walls’, but this day has clearly shown that the greatest value of higher education lies in its people. Our teaching staff and students have proven that inner strength, spirit and a shared identity are stronger than any distance.

Thank you to everyone who brightened up the day with their smiles in traditional embroidered shirts! Together we are unbeatable, because our traditions are our strength.

You can find out more about this and other events organised by the Department of History and Philosophy on social media via these links:

• Instagram
• Facebook

Prepared by the lecturers of the Department of History and Philosophy