Author Larisa Nitsoy Claims She Originated Ukraine's March 3rd Writer's Day

Writer's Day in Ukraine

According to Главком: Ukrainian author Larisa Nitsoy states she was the driving force behind establishing a Writer's Day in Ukraine, celebrated on March 3rd. She refutes claims of the holiday having Russian origins, noting it has been observed unofficially in the country for 15 years. However, some online users have questioned the holiday's existence, sparking public debate. This discussion occurs as Ukraine actively re-evaluates cultural symbols and holidays in the context of its national identity.

Larisa Nitsoy, a Ukrainian linguist, activist, and writer, emphasized the holiday's goal is to promote Ukrainian literature.

"Yesterday, I was hit in the back by a grenade. Not a live one, but it was just as effective-a humanitarian one, from our own people. So, esteemed colleagues, I, Ukrainian writer and nationalist Larisa Nitsoy, was the one who instituted Writer's Day on March 3rd in Ukraine. The holiday has taken root and has been celebrated by writers and readers and mentioned in the media for 15 consecutive years!"

Nitsoy also stressed that no source confirms PEN International designated March 3, 1986, as World/International Writers' Day.

"And when someone objects and says, 'It's not the Muscovites, but we heard something about the London PEN Club,' the response is just clapping and dancing, claiming there are no documents confirming PEN's decision. Therefore, this holiday doesn't exist. But how can it not exist when we've been celebrating it in Ukraine for 15 years? Why do you constantly need some foreign validation? Can't we have our own holiday?"

Proposals for New Holidays

Simultaneously, amid discussions about holidays, lawmakers have published a proposal in draft law No. 15052 to replace March 8th with a Day of the Ukrainian Woman. This indicates legislative activity and a desire to implement new traditions in Ukrainian society.

Thus, the debate over Writer's Day and proposals for a Day of the Ukrainian Woman highlight the importance of cultural traditions and their societal impact. This underscores that Ukrainian culture is actively evolving, with society striving to form its own holidays and traditions that reflect national values. In the face of modern challenges like war, culture's role in consolidating society becomes even more significant.