Journey to the Light - Successful Event by Ostrava Universities Commemorates November 17th
On Sunday, November 17th, students from the University of Ostrava (OU) and the VŠB — Technical University of Ostrava (VŠB-TUO) organized another anniversary of the memorial event titled "Journey to the Light." This occasion, held with the support of the statutory city of Ostrava, commemorated the anniversaries of the events of 1939 and 1989.
From the memorial event Journey to the Light. Photograph: Adolf Horsinka
This year's "Journey to the Light" commenced with a discussion led by Professor Jan Malura from the Faculty of Arts at the University of Ostrava at the VŠB-TUO premises in Poruba. Following this, attendees were transported by a double-decker bus to the city center for the commencement of the candlelight procession, which made its way from Masaryk Square through several significant locations to the memorial plaque on Bráfova Street. Once again, the plaque underwent its symbolic cleaning.
“November 17th is one of the most significant dates in the academic year. We remember the events of 1939 and 1989, when the values of freedom, democracy, and active resistance against oppression and injustice triumphed. I greatly appreciate that our students dedicate so much time and energy to preparing a dignified memorial event with a substantial impact. This year, for the first time in collaboration with the city and VŠB-TUO,” stated the Rector of the University of Ostrava, Petr Kopecký.
In addition to lectures and the traditional procession, the program featured an interesting musical accompaniment by Martin Chodúr and the student ensemble Ostravská bandaska.
“The Velvet Revolution is a pivotal milestone in our modern history. We commemorate it as an inspiration and legacy for future generations. It is important not to forget the power of the collective voice and the courage of individuals, thanks to which we can live in a free and open society. These topics are equally relevant for our international students, whom we can educate about our history and present through events like this,” shared Václav Snášel, Rector of VŠB-TUO.
“Each year, the originally intimate memorial event expands to reach as many people as possible. Our common goal is to provide not only the people of Ostrava with a place to gather in memory of the Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy and International Students' Day but also to remind everyone that all future days depend on the active and unceasing care for the values that many consider self-evident,” said Jana Hájková, Vice-Chairwoman of the Academic Senate of OU representing the student chamber.
The commemoration of the semi-centennial anniversary of two significant days took place with the support of the city of Ostrava's leadership. “The legacy of November 17th is fundamental for our entire country. It reminds current generations of two standpoints against totalitarian oppression and represents a symbol of the struggle for freedom, democracy, and independence. I am pleased that this anniversary remains alive among students. After all, it was Czech students who were significant actors in the events of November 1939 and 1989,” assessed John Dohnal, Mayor of Ostrava.
After a symbolic act and singing the Czechoslovak anthem, along with a thematic musical contribution, the event concluded with a performance by students from the University of Ostrava and an informal discussion.