Ukraine Celebrates Crimean Tatar Flag Day, а Century-Old Symbol of Resistance

On June 26th each year, Ukraine celebrates the Day of the Crimean Tatar Flag, a blue banner featuring a yellow emblem known as the tamga, which has existed for over a century. The flag symbolizes the resistance of the Crimean Tatar people against attempts to eradicate their culture.

The Crimean Tatar flag was first raised in 1917, immediately following the February Revolution. In early 1919, the Crimean Tatar Parliamentary Bureau adopted regulations on the cultural-national autonomy of Muslims in Crimea, officially recognizing the tamga as their national emblem and a gray-blue flag with the emblem in the upper corner as their flag. This marked the first documented recognition of their national emblem and flag in their modern form.

Due to Soviet repression against Crimean Tatars and the establishment of a communist regime, the flag fell out of use. It wasn’t until 1991, following the restoration of their national institutions through the Kurultai, that a resolution was passed on their national flag and anthem. The blue flag, alongside the Ukrainian flag, was once again seen waving over Crimea.

Since 2014, Crimea has been under Russian occupation, and the Crimean Tatar population has faced persecution, including kidnappings and oppression. Despite these challenges, the Crimean Tatar flag continues to serve as a symbol of their ongoing struggle for cultural preservation and autonomy.

Since 2010, Ukraine has officially observed the Day of the Crimean Tatar Flag. Traditionally, the flag is raised at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building, and this year, it was also raised at the Kyiv City State Administration and throughout the governmental district of Kyiv. The flag is also displayed in other countries as part of the “United by the Flag” campaign, spanning 28 countries across four continents.

The significance of the Crimean Tatar flag lies in its representation of the struggle for Crimea, embodying resilience and courage. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving history, culture, and language amidst adversity.