Members of the State Duma are poised to introduce a cross-factional bill aiming to establish January 28 as a new commemorative date in Russia: the Day of National History.
An explanatory note accompanying the proposed legislation clarifies its purpose: “The draft federal law `On Amending Article 1.1 of the Federal Law `On Days of Military Glory and Commemorative Dates of Russia“ is designed to designate January 28 as the Day of National History in Russia.”
The selection of this particular date for the new holiday is deeply significant, as it marks the birthday of the esteemed Russian historian Vasily Klyuchevsky. His extensive and fundamental works on Russian history are recognized for their immense contribution to the advancement of national historical scholarship.
The Ministry of Education and Science, alongside the Russian Academy of Sciences, has officially endorsed this initiative, as confirmed in the document.
Parliamentarians envision the Day of National History as an opportunity to organize a wide array of educational and cultural events. These could include scientific conferences, discussion panels, historical dictations and Olympiads, screenings of historical films, theatrical performances, and specialized lessons in both general education schools and higher learning institutions.
Yaroslav Nilov, head of the State Duma Committee on Social Policy and a co-author of the initiative, informed journalists that contemporary society faces numerous external and, to some degree, internal efforts to revise historical narratives, distort established facts, instill doubt in the minds of the younger generation, and undermine public confidence in the nation`s illustrious past.
He underscored, “Our collective mission is to safeguard historical memory, countering all forms of aggression and demonstrably false doctrines. This new commemorative date serves as a reminder of the need to treat our history with reverence, to study and honor the past, for without a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of it, there is no future.”
Dmitry Gusev (SRZP), another State Duma deputy and co-author of the bill, emphasized that history acts as a unifying force for people today, offering solutions to modern challenges and helping to maintain societal cohesion.
He further stated, “The state is obligated not only to remember its history but also to create an environment where this memory becomes an integral part of public life. The Day of National History will contribute significantly to this objective and become a vital symbol of national unity.”
According to the deputy, the introduction of this new commemorative date is expected to boost citizens` historical knowledge, deepen respect for the past, and cultivate a stronger sense of national identity and shared destiny.
