Freedom is the Way, Not the Destination: Independence Restoration Day of Georgia

A nation dies when it forgets about its history, heritage and culture.

As we look back on these historic events, we are reminded that freedom is not just a destination, it is a way of life. It is the essence of who we are as a nation, the very fabric of our culture and identity.

In our hearts, we carry the legacy of those who fought for freedom. Their courage lives on in each of us, inspiring us to stand up for what is right and just. We must never forget the sacrifices made on that dark night, nor the triumph of independence that followed.

Today, as we reflect on the journey of the Georgian nation, we are filled with gratitude for those who came before us, through centuries of never-ending wars and constant self-defense. Their sacrifices remind us that freedom is a precious gift, one that must be cherished and protected.

As Georgians, we stand united in our commitment to freedom, justice, and democracy.

We honor the heroes of April 9, 1989, and all those who have fought for our nation's independence. Their legacy lives on in our hearts, guiding us on the path of freedom.

Honoring the Heroes of April 9, 1989

34 years have passed since the tragic events of April 9, 1989, in Tbilisi, when the Soviet army, with tanks and poison gas, confronted thousands of peaceful demonstrators in Tbilisi who were rallying for Georgia's independence. On Rustaveli Avenue, 21 people lost their lives.

The night of April 9, 1989, is etched into the collective memory of Georgians as a time of courage, sacrifice, and the pursuit of freedom.

At 3:56 am, riot police appeared on Rustaveli Avenue, where thousands had gathered in front of the Parliament building. They had been warned that Soviet army units were ordered to disperse the demonstration.

In a poignant moment, the Catholicos-Patriarch of Georgia, Ilia II, urged the people to enter the temple and pray, hoping to prevent bloodshed. But the resolute demonstrators stood their ground.

As dawn broke, the sounds of dancing and singing filled the air, soon replaced by a chilling silence.

The armed forces, led by Colonel General Radionov, approached the Parliament building wielding entrenchment shovels and blunt weapons. They ruthlessly attacked the protesters, and chemical gas was deployed. Sixteen lives were lost on that fateful morning.

Over the following days, the death toll rose to 21, with most of the victims being women and pupils. Many sustained fatal injuries from the brutal use of entrenchment shovels, while thousands were poisoned by gas.

The tragedy of that dawn was followed by a declaration of curfew. Despite attempts by the Soviet press to downplay the events, the truth could not be concealed. The victims were not mere casualties of a clash; they were martyrs for freedom.

The collapse of the USSR

Two years later, on April 9, 1991, the tide of change swept over Georgia. The communist regime, weakened by the events of 1989, was on the verge of collapse. Under mounting pressure from the national movement and public outcry, the government was compelled to take decisive steps.

In 1990, resolutions were passed that effectively declared the Soviet government in Georgia illegal, paving the way for multiparty elections.

On October 28, 1990, the Communist Party suffered defeat, and the political organization "Round Table - Free Georgia," led by Zviad Gamsakhurdia, emerged victorious.

A historic referendum followed on March 31, 1991. Almost 91 percent of the population participated, with an overwhelming 99 percent voting in favor of restoring Georgia's independence based on the act of May 26, 1918.

Then, at noon on April 9, 1991, in an extraordinary session of the Supreme Soviet, an act on the restoration of Georgia's independence was adopted.

Zviad Gamsakhurdia, a prominent figure in Georgia's struggle for freedom, spoke solemn words that echoed through the chambers:

"It is symbolic to announce on April 9 the restoration of Georgia’s independence, since that day the fate of Georgia was being decided. The souls of the April 9 martyrs rejoice for us, because their will has been fulfilled, the will of the Georgian people to greet independent Georgia has been fulfilled. God bless us."

Looking towards a bright future

As we honor the heroes of April 9, 1989, and celebrate the restoration of our independence, we look towards a future filled with hope and promise.

Georgia has come a long way since those dark days, and today we stand as a proud nation, united in our commitment to freedom and democracy.

As we continue to build a prosperous and inclusive society, let us remember the sacrifices of the past and strive to create a better tomorrow for generations to come.

Georgia's future is filled with potential!

Our journey towards a brighter future is guided by the resilience and determination of our people.

Together, our generation, raised in a free country, will write the next chapter of our nation's history.