Iftar as a Symbol of Unity: The Russian Agricultural Workers' Union Unites Generations of Fatherland Defenders
Recently, members of the Russian Agricultural Workers' Union gathered for iftar. These included people who had lived through the wars in Afghanistan and Chechnya, families of those currently participating in the Special Military Operation (SMO), and volunteers supporting the soldiers.
Alsu Gainutdinova, Chair of the Chelny-Broiler Trade Union, recounted how, before the pandemic, the victors of the Great Patriotic War, veterans, and those who worked in the home front would gather there. Then, due to the pandemic and the start of the special operation, such meetings had to be postponed. But since 2023, the union has traditionally met with the families of SMO participants. This year, they decided to combine several important dates: to congratulate the defenders of the Fatherland, to celebrate International Women's Day, and to support the families of the heroes.
Since important holidays—Defender of the Fatherland Day (February 23) and March 8—coincided with Ramadan, an iftar was held on that day. This symbolized the union's unity. They paid tribute to veterans and supported the soldiers and their families.
Gabdrashit Hazrat spoke at the meeting. He spoke about the significance of Ramadan, the importance of faith in battle, and shared stories he had heard from soldiers. He recited a prayer before the communal meal.
Viktor Gafurov, director of Chelny-Broiler, and Ruslan Gilyazov, director of Agrosila Chelny-MPK, wished the soldiers a speedy completion of their military service and their return home. They were congratulated by women on the spring holiday. Former director Dilshat Sitdikov recalled how they saw off the soldiers in the fall of 2022 and honored the memory of the fallen with a moment of silence.
Volunteers from the "Together to Victory!" movement Dilyara Vakhitova and Yulia Sushkova thanked the Agrosila leadership for their assistance to the mobilized soldiers. Valentina Zakharova, coordinator of the volunteer group from Naberezhnye Chelny, presented a box with essential items for the soldier. She was awarded a letter of thanks from the unit's command for her invaluable assistance.
Rimma Faskhutdinova, Executive Director of the United Russia branch, noted the importance of cooperation with the company and thanked the veterans for their service. Composer Ilnur Gumerov and Ilnaz Kharisov, the son of a combat veteran, performed heartfelt songs.
The most touching moment was a master class for the children of SMO participants. They painted on canvases and bags, imbuing their drawings with light and hope. The young artists were so engrossed in their work that they forgot all the rest.
All this demonstrated that courage is timeless. The veterans and families of SMO participants looked at each other with respect. Volunteers, like an invisible thread, connected the front and the home front, proving that the soldiers were not alone.
The conversations around the table were sincere. People shared experiences and supported each other. Volunteers talked about humanitarian aid, and families found comfort and support in their conversations.
These meetings reminded us of the importance of supporting those serving the Fatherland and their loved ones. This was not just a solemn event, but a gathering of a large trade union family, united by a common destiny, the memory of those who died, and faith in victory.