All-Ukrainian Radio Dictation of National Unity – an Act of Love for the Language

Every year, on Ukrainian Writing and Language Day, Ukrainians around the world come together to write the All-Ukrainian Radio Dictation of National Unity. This tradition has become a heartfelt symbol of love for the Ukrainian language and identity. In times of war, this unity takes on even deeper meaning – as Ukrainians continue to defend their right to their life, history, language, and culture.

This year’s dictation text, “We Must Live!”, was written by Yevhenia Kuznietsova and read on air by Natalia Sumska, People’s Artist of Ukraine.

The East SOS team traditionally joins the Radio Dictation. Our shared participation is a reminder that even in the most difficult times, we continue to preserve, nurture, and develop the Ukrainian language – the foundation of our unity.

“We are all part of a large community strengthened by our love for the language and for Ukraine. Every day at our foundation is about comprehensive support and care, and today it is also about the power of words that help us endure,” – Yulia Krasilnykova, Executive Director at East SOS.

The initiative was also supported by Zatyshno Space, a nationwide network of safe spaces. After completing the dictation, participants shared their reflections with visitors, discussed the importance of language, and felt a deep sense of unity with the entire country. Our Zatyshno Spaces nurture a love for the Ukrainian language through educational events and community initiatives. In Zaporizhzhia, for instance, a workshop-game “Shevchenko Asks About Ukraine: Language Upgrade” will take place on the Day of Ukrainian Writing and Language, while in Kharkiv, the conversation club “Terevenky: Practicing Ukrainian” invites both teenagers and adults to improve their speaking skills in a friendly setting.

“Radio Dictation of National Unity is the perfect name. We’ve united here today as like-minded people who want to support what’s Ukrainian – our language, our identity. It’s inspiring! I’m filled with positive emotions, even despite the debates over Natalia Sumska’s reading. I worried it might be too difficult and I’d make mistakes, but the sentences were simple and heartfelt, full of life,” shared Iryna, a visitor to Zatyshno Space Zaporizhzhia.

Visit other events in Kharkiv, Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Vinnytsia. Find addresses and schedules at the link below.

The Spaces in Zaporizhzhia, Kharkiv, and Mykolaiv operate as part of the project “Protection and Necessary Psychosocial Support for War Victims Living in Frontline Areas” with financial support from the German Federal Foreign Office. The Zatyshno Space centers in Vinnytsia and Cherkasy provide assistance with the financial support of the Fondation de France’s Solidarity with Ukraine Program.