Crimean Activist Violeta Stolyarova: Her Struggle Against Occupation
Date: 2023-12-18 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: CRIMEA
Life Under Oppression
Violeta Stolyarova lived in Sevastopol for over 30 years. However, she refused to accept the occupation of the peninsula and voiced her protest by creating pro-Ukrainian graffiti, hanging ribbons, and distributing leaflets. Her actions attracted the attention of Russian authorities, leading to persecution. Criminal charges were brought against Violeta, and she was declared wanted. Managing to leave the temporarily occupied Crimea, she now resides in mainland Ukraine, awaiting the liberation of the peninsula. Stolyarova shared her story with Ukrinform.
Seeking Resistance Amidst Conflict
"When the full-scale war began, I sought anti-war movements in Crimea," Stolyarova recounted. "I felt people needed to say 'no' to these events." However, her efforts were met with misunderstanding as most did not comprehend the gravity of the situation. "It felt insane. Then 'Yellow Ribbon' announced a protest in Sevastopol. I was glad, but it turned out to be an online rally."
Finding Inspiration Amidst Struggle
Following the resistance in Kherson on the 'Yellow Ribbon' Telegram channel, she supported local rallies and actions, feeling elated for them as such resistance was absent in Crimea.
Observing Kherson's struggle amid occupation, especially their leaflet campaigns, inspired her. "I started printing leaflets on my black-and-white printer at home. I cautiously posted them wherever possible: on walls, fences, benches." However, her efforts vanished overnight, leaving her disheartened.
The Quest Continues
Undeterred, she turned to hanging ribbons as a visible sign of resistance. "It was essential to place them in recognizable spots to show Sevastopol's resistance." Placing them discreetly around the city center, near landmarks like Sevgeodesy or the pension fund, became her modus operandi. Her actions were clandestine, parking her car as far away as possible. "Yellow Ribbon" featured her work, bringing her immense satisfaction, revealing that Sevastopol resisted the occupation.
A Testament to Resilience
Violeta Stolyarova's unwavering defiance against the occupation of Crimea stands as a testament to resilience. Her activism, despite adversity, echoes the persistent struggle for liberty in the face of oppression.
