3 September 1991 marks a memorable event in the lives of Armenians, being the first day ever in which we were able to cast vote in the referendum. People of all ages flocked to voting stations to cast their votes and makes their voices heard. Even newly-weds arrived to make their mark, brides still in their wedding gowns, not to miss out on this historic occasion.
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Newly-weds were among those who cast their votes on this historic day[/caption]
The future of the nation was in our hands, for the first time in seven years, making our votes crucial. Earlier on in 1991, Soviet Armenia took the decision not to partake in the referendum which was announced to preserve the Soviet Union but opted to vote on whether Armenia should remain in the U.S.S.R.
Armenian citizens had their say as 95% voted in the referendum which was held on 21 September 1991. A staggering 99.5% of voters stood for Armenia's independence from the U.S.S.R. It was only two days later that Armenians were celebrating as parliament proclaimed our republic as "ankakh petutyun" - an independent state.
21 September was from that point onwards reserved in celebration of Independence Day, a new beginning for our people. It was on this day that Armenians took a "courageous leap into statehood," making the bold decision be an independent nation.
We salute all those who took the step of faith which has allowed us to experience the freedom and honor of being part of an independent Armenia!
Happy Armenian Independence Day!
Newly-weds were among those who cast their votes on this historic day[/caption]
The future of the nation was in our hands, for the first time in seven years, making our votes crucial. Earlier on in 1991, Soviet Armenia took the decision not to partake in the referendum which was announced to preserve the Soviet Union but opted to vote on whether Armenia should remain in the U.S.S.R.
Armenian citizens had their say as 95% voted in the referendum which was held on 21 September 1991. A staggering 99.5% of voters stood for Armenia's independence from the U.S.S.R. It was only two days later that Armenians were celebrating as parliament proclaimed our republic as "ankakh petutyun" - an independent state.
21 September was from that point onwards reserved in celebration of Independence Day, a new beginning for our people. It was on this day that Armenians took a "courageous leap into statehood," making the bold decision be an independent nation.
We salute all those who took the step of faith which has allowed us to experience the freedom and honor of being part of an independent Armenia!
Happy Armenian Independence Day!