Kaisar,
47 years old, freelancer, business consultant
For me, Independence Day of Kazakhstan is, first of all, the Kazakhs finding their own country after 200 years of not being able to have their own state, being part of Russia and the Soviet Union. It is the liberation of Kazakhstan from a kind of colonial regime.
Gaining independence is a major event for all Kazakhs. The importance lies not only in acquiring their own country, but also in the sense of self-identification as a nation, because for two centuries the Kazakhs lost their roots, their cultural and historical heritage. With independence, the Kazakhs restored their culture and spirit. This is very important. It is also important to have a state with the appropriate institutions, recognized throughout the world, with a flag, coat of arms, power and other attributes.
As a rule, we do not celebrate this holiday with our family specifically. Why is December 16 not such a big holiday for me? Because this date is a little sad, especially in connection with the events of December 1986. We remember this event and perceive it as an additional day off that can be spent with the family. However, on this day, as the head of the family, I remind my children why December 16 is Independence Day, where this date came from and why it is so important for us, Kazakhs and Kazakhstanis. We try to give significance to this date.
In my opinion, the main achievements are the agreements on borders and their clarification, the renunciation of nuclear weapons and the establishment of diplomatic relations with other countries. Kazakhstan is making a name for itself in the arts, sports and IT. Of course, not everything is perfect, but there are achievements to be proud of.
It is also important that more than 100 nationalities live peacefully in Kazakhstan. In recent years, Kazakhs have increasingly discovered and appreciated their cultural heritage, and are aware of their history and roots.
I remember vividly the day Kazakhstan declared independence. It happened later than other countries that had left the Soviet Union, and we had been waiting for this moment for a long time, wondering why we were the last. But when it happened, it was a really big deal.
December 16, as Independence Day, became a significant date in the history of Kazakhstan. It was the moment when Kazakhs declared their attitude towards the Soviet regime, and this day became a starting point for all countries of the former Soviet Union. It became a landmark event and a trigger for further movements towards independence.
We don't have any special traditions associated with the Independence Day celebration. Usually on these days we relax with our families, watch patriotic and historical films, try to spend time together. As I already said, on this day I explain to my children the importance of this date: why December 16 is considered Independence Day.
We do not participate in mass events or street festivities. For us, this is more of a historical date, important for memory, than a big holiday.