Today, Ukraine marks the Day of the State Emblem.
The Tryzub has stood alongside Ukrainians throughout every period of our history — on the coins of Rus’-Ukraine, in the official documents of the Ukrainian People’s Republic, on the flags of the liberation movements, on the postcards and awards of the resistance, among those who took to the streets to protest against the communist totalitarian regime, and during the Revolution of Dignity.
The Tryzub appeared on Ukrainian lands as early as the 10th century, during the reign of Volodymyr the Great. It was the dynastic symbol of the Rurikid dynasty, to which most rulers of Rus’-Ukraine belonged.
At different times, russia banned this symbol, persecuted those who used it, and sought to erase it together with Ukrainian identity itself. Yet this thousand-year-old sign of Ukrainian statehood endured. It was, is, and will remain.
The Tryzub is one of Ukraine’s three state symbols. Together with the national flag and anthem, it represents our statehood as well as a historical legacy that connects generations of Ukrainians and different eras of the struggle for independence.
It is on the chevrons of our defenders, on military equipment, and in the hearts of Ukrainians around the world. It is on our passports — a reminder of where we come from and who we are. It is a symbol of our unity and pride.
We remember everyone who has defended and continues to defend our country and its symbols. We strive to be worthy of their sacrifice.
Photo: Nikita Titov