There are things that have no time zones and borders. Among them is the Ukrainian word. It became the invisible thread that connected the hearts of Ukrainians on the day of the National Unity Radio Dictation-2025, which took place this year on October 27.

Even across the ocean, among other cultures and languages, we - Ukrainian teachers of the diaspora - sat down to write this dictation together with our native land. At different times, in different countries, but with the same feeling: we belong to a people for whom words are not just sounds. They are prayer, memory, and the breath of the heart.

For us, this is not just a literacy test. It is a reminder that unity is not measured by distance. It lives where people are able to hear each other even through silence. We sought to breathe in the same breath of the Motherland when the Ukrainian language sounds - melodious, gentle, strong.

This year the dictation caused a wave of discussions and disputes. But, perhaps, this is precisely what our common unfinished page consists of - learning to love our own without judgment.
Because a nation is strong not when everyone is flawless, but when we give each other room for error, time for reflection and a chance to improve.
We weaken when we drown our own. We grow when we raise them.

In the educational institutions where we work, every day we teach children not only letters, but also the ability to protect their own.
Because preserving the language means preserving the soul.
When a child first says “thank you”, “mom”, “God” in Ukrainian - it is a small miracle that overcomes borders.

As long as this word is heard - Ukraine is alive.
Because Ukraine is not just a territory on the map. This is the memory of generations, a tear and a song, pain and hope that pulsate in every heart where love for one's own lives.
And as long as we carry this light, do not betray our word, know how to forgive and support - we unite the continents with the power of love that only our native language gives.