On March 18, a rally-concert entitled Our Choice Is to Be Together was held in Saratov on Sergei Rachmaninov Square in front of the conservatory dedicated to the tenth anniversary of the Crimea’s reunification with Russia.
The event was attended by Governor Roman Busargin, a deputy of the State Duma of the Russian Federation Nikolai Pankov, Mayor Lada Mokrousova, Prime Minister of the Saratov Regional Duma Mikhail Isayev, public figures, and residents of the city.
The delegation of Saratov State University was headed by Rector Alexei Chumachenko. The vice-rectors, the directors of the institutes, the deans f the faculties, the teaching staff, and students of SSU gathered at the square. They held posters with the following patriotic slogans: Russia! Crimea! 10 Years Together, One Russia – One Country, and Russia and Crimea Together Forever.
Governor Roman Busargin addressed the audience. He noted the importance of the memorable date. ‘10 years ago, Crimea returned home, to Russia. I remember the day when the referendum was held very well: then, once again, I felt a sense of pride for our country and our people, who always support their people. We are together! This is not just a slogan: it shows the unity of our people, our traditions and values, and a common vision of Russia's development.’
Roman Busargin called another event symbolic and fateful. ‘Our President Vladimir Putin has won an unconditional victory in the elections. With such a leader, we can do anything! There is no doubt about it!’ To remind, on March 15-17, voting in the Russian presidential elections took place in Russia. Polling station No. 152 in SSU Bldg. 8 has been working in Saratov State University for three days. It was convenient for the students and the teaching staff of SSU to vote on the university grounds. Many first-year students took part in the presidential elections for the first time. The university management, teaching and other staff, as well as students expressed their civic position during the voting days. Many came with their families and posted photos on social networks with the hashtag #allfamily.
After Roman Busargin's speech, the head of the People's Front for Russia regional committee Sergei Sharov, the head of the Wives of Heroes regional movement Natalia Rechman, the chairman of the Combat Brotherhood regional branch Sergei Aveniyazov addressed the townspeople with inspiring speeches. Patriotic slogans and songs performed by local bands were sang from the stage, and dance groups performed.
The Saratov branch of the People’s Front organised the rally. According to the organisers, 6 thousand citizens gathered on Rachmaninov Square. On March 18, 2014, an official document was signed confirming the entry of the Republic of Crimea and the federal city of Sevastopol into the Russian Federation. This decision was taken following the results of the referendum held on the peninsula: the majority of the residents voted for the reunification with Russia.
