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Česká republika slaví dva důležité dny: 85 let od uzavření univerzit nacisty a 35 let od pádu komunistického režimu . V Praze se konají akce na Národní třídě, koncerty na Václavském náměstí a výsadba lip. Události se připomínají i v Brně. Den symbolizuje boj za svobodu a demokracii.
Translation
The Czech Republic celebrates two significant anniversaries: 85 years since the closure of universities by the Nazis and 35 years since the fall of the communist regime. Events are held in Prague on Národní třída, with concerts at Wenceslas Square and the planting of lime trees. The commemorations also take place in Brno. The day symbolises the fight for freedom and democracy.
Exercise: Text comprehension
Question 1: What are the two anniversaries that the Czech Republic is celebrating?
The Czech Republic is celebrating 85 years since the closure of universities by the Nazis and 35 years since the fall of the communist regime.
Question 2: Where are the events being commemorated in Prague?
Events are being commemorated on Národní třída, with concerts on Wenceslas Square and planting of linden trees.
Exercise: Vocabulary
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▌16/11/2024
The Czech Republic is set to commemorate two significant historical events on Sunday, marking 85 years since the Nazi closure of Czech universities and 35 years since the fall of the communist regime. Known as the Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy and the International Students’ Day, this occasion will be observed with a variety of activities across the country.
In the capital, Prague, the main events are to take place along Národní třída, the site of a pivotal student demonstration in 1989. This street will transform into a pedestrian zone for the day. The activities will begin with a remembrance event at the Hlávka College, honouring the victims of Nazi persecution. Notably, a ceremony at Ruzyně Prison will pay tribute to the executed students of 1939.
The Festival of Freedom will allow participants to plant seeds of the national symbol, the linden tree. This initiative, called 'Linden for the Future', offers 58,000 seed packets, encouraging citizens to engage in planting the symbolic tree whose roots in Czech soil represent unity and longevity.
Praha's observances will also include a variety of public speeches by university leaders and student representatives at Albertov, situated alongside cultural performances such as the 'Concert for the Future' on Václavské náměstí. A showcase of diverse musicians and activists, this concert is designed to both commemorate and inspire ongoing dialogue about societal issues.
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The celebrations extend beyond Prague, with significant events in Brno titled 'Brněnský sedmnáctý'. Focused on the themes of freedom and responsibility, the festival will see performances from artists such as Thom Artway, and likely draw reflections on past and present struggles for democratic progress.
However, the commemorations are not without logistical considerations. Parts of the city centre will be inaccessible to both car and tram traffic throughout the day, especially around the primary celebratory locations on Národní třída and Václavské náměstí.
Highlighting the day's reflective tone, the evening will feature the premiere of the film 'Svoboda nás spojuje' ('Freedom Unites Us'). This film will be shown on three large screens, culminating in a poignant rendition of Marta Kubišová's 'Modlitba pro Martu,' a song that has become associated with the fight for freedom.
The day also provides a platform for various groups to express contemporary concerns. For instance, environmental activists will conduct a march through Prague, while the organisation 'Milion chvilek' will stage a demonstration advocating against the rise of authoritarian influences.
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