Every year at the end of October, people around the world commemorate the prominent Belarusian figures executed in Minsk during the night of October 29–30, 1937. Among them there were 22 writers. That night is symbolically called the “Night of Poets”, as it is a time to honor the memory of these outstanding creators.

In Zurich, a warm and friendly gathering was held to pay tribute to the executed poets, not only for their tragic deaths, but also for their remarkable contributions. Songs were performed based on the poetry of A. Volny, A. Dudar, Y. Taubin, V. Marakou, and S. Grakhouski (who was repressed in 1936 and 1949 but fortunately not executed). Participants recited their favorite poems by the executed poets, shared their thoughts and emotions, and reflected on the legacy of these figures.

For the occasion, artist Inna Nikifarava created portraits of the executed poets. The event concluded with a group performance of a song every Belarusian knows, regardless of age or political views – Kupalinka. Its lyrics were written by Mikhas Charot, one of the poets executed in 1937.

On November 1, another memorial evening will take place in Zurich with the participation of Belarusian cultural figures and artists: Mikhail Gulin, Antonina Slabodchikova, Zmitser Vishnyou, Yury Dzyvakou, Siarhei Hudzilin, and Alexander Adamov. The event is organized by Sofiya Schweizer and Iryna Herasimovich (Slavistics Department, University of Zurich).

Join in honoring our predecessors, innocently destroyed by the authorities.