Remembering the Victims: A Day of Remembrance at Kazakhstan's ALZHIR Memorial

Akmola, Kazakhstan, hosted a Day of Remembrance for Victims of Political Repressions and Famine on May 31, 2025. Timur Asylkhanov's video captures the somber event at the ALZHIR memorial complex. The video features interviews with descendants of those imprisoned in the camp, sharing their family's stories of suffering and resilience. One descendant, whose mother was imprisoned in ALZHIR, stated, "My mother was here. She was from the Far East, but studied in Moscow, and that's where they repressed her." Another interviewee, whose relative was a prominent figure in early Kazakhstan, emphasized the historical importance of the site. The memorial serves as a powerful reminder of a tragic chapter in Kazakhstan's history, highlighting the importance of remembering and learning from the past. The event underscores the ongoing efforts to preserve and honor the memory of those who endured political repression and famine.