The Daily The Sunday Read: ‘The Battle for the Mural — and the Future of Belarus’
Apr 10, 2022
The struggle for identity in Belarus takes center stage as citizens rise against authoritarianism. A powerful mural in Minsk becomes a symbol of resistance, embodying hope amidst oppression. Personal stories reveal the courage of activists facing state repression and the emotional toll of living under dictatorship. The podcast captures the tension of protests leading up to the 2020 elections and the creative acts of defiance that unite the community. It’s a tale of resilience, reflecting on the fight for democracy in a turbulent landscape.
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DJs' Defiance
- During the 2020 Belarusian presidential election, two state-employed DJs played a banned protest song.
- This unexpected act of defiance sparked a wave of protests and became a symbol of resistance.
Birth of the Square of Change
- Following the DJs' arrest, a mural of them appeared on a playground in Minsk.
- This seemingly accidental placement transformed the playground into a focal point of protests, known as the Square of Change.
Shifting Belarusian Identity
- Belarusians had long tolerated authoritarianism, prioritizing stability and family over politics.
- However, the events of 2020 ignited a sense of national identity and willingness to fight for change.