Radiation Disaster Responders and Victims Remembrance Day
April 26 · Level 6 · #988 of 2238
This Russian remembrance day honours those who dealt with the aftermath of radiation accidents and remembers their victims. Its date recalls the Chernobyl disaster, but the observance also encompasses people affected by other radiation emergencies.
How it is celebrated: communities lay flowers at memorials, observe moments of silence and hold gatherings with former responders. Exhibitions and educational events tell their stories and recognise the experiences of affected families.
The term “liquidator” covered a remarkably wide range of jobs. Firefighters and military personnel worked alongside engineers, drivers, medical staff and construction workers, each contributing to a different part of the response.