To stand for one’s choice and to fight for one’s rights is the mark of a citizen.
To defend the independence of the state and the choice made by an entire nation is the mark of a patriot. And to face both a tyrant and an external aggressor without lowering one’s gaze is the mark of a dignified person.
Throughout history, Ukrainians have repeatedly demonstrated their willingness to defend their freedom and the well-being of the nation. In the years of independence, the turning points in the struggle for dignity were the Orange Revolution and the Revolution of Dignity. It was on November 21, 2013, that Ukrainians once again declared that we will not tolerate the usurpation of power or the violation of our national choice.
The events of November 2013 marked the beginning of a revolutionary struggle — first against pro-Russian usurpers, and later against direct Russian aggression. In that crucible, the steel of the Ukrainian nation and the spirit of patriotism were forged. It was in that fire that the heartbeat of volunteer battalions emerged — among them Azov.
Dignity and freedom are the lifeblood of the volunteer movement.
Dignity can exist only as the consequence of free choice.
And free choice is possible only among those who understand the value of freedom.
Our enemy seeks to take away our freedom — and through it, to deprive us of dignity.
But we do not bargain with dignity.
We chose to fight.