Another round of “Conversations About Important Things” took place in Russian schools. The lesson, titled “A Hero from the Neighboring Yard,” was dedicated to Defender of the Fatherland Day. Teachers were instructed to convey to students that “true heroes are those who stand up to defend their Motherland and perform acts of bravery,” and that “a sense of pride and memory of the feats of ancestors” ensures the stable development of society.
The lesson consisted of two parts — a federal and a regional one. In the federal part, common to all regions, students were told that throughout its centuries-long history, Russia has repeatedly defended its independence from foreign invaders and has been forced to wage numerous wars.
“The idea of fighting an aggressor is a nationwide, traditional concept for Russia and is defensive in nature,” — a line from the teacher’s script.
Teachers were advised to conclude the federal part with a quote from the song “Father” by Shaman: “So that I could breathe, you won your final battle and became the brightest star in the sky forever.”
The regional parts of the lesson varied and were dedicated to “outstanding compatriots” from different historical periods: pre-1917, World War II, and the war against Ukraine. In this way, participants of the “special military operation” were effectively placed on the same level as WWII veterans in the eyes of students.
When discussing the war against Ukraine, teachers were instructed to cite Putin’s words that participants in the operation are “all heroes” and should be treated accordingly.
One part of the lesson included a video interview with military clergy — Archpriest Viktor Ivanov and Imam Khamza-khazrat Khafizov. In the video, they discuss service, the “Russian spirit,” large families, and the spiritual support of “SMO participants” on the front.
“I wish all young people to be patriots of their country, to study diligently, and in the future to become a pillar of our state, to do what depends on you,” — says the imam.
At the end of the lesson, students were invited to take part in the campaign “Our Defenders of the Fatherland” and were shown a video featuring “SMO participants” reflecting on heroism. Special attention in the video was given to the “Portrait of a Hero” campaign, which, according to organizers, involved 20,000 participants and is described as “a living dialogue and thousands of stories of courage and bravery.”
“To love your country, to be ready to defend your Motherland, even if it may cost you your life,” — says one of the servicemen.
