While working as a sign language interpreter at the Ukrainian state-run channel UT1, Nataliya Dmytruk became known for a live news broadcast on November 24, 2004, when she refused to translate the official script that announced Viktor Yanukovych as the winner of the presidential election. Deviating from the official script followed by the voice announcer, Dmytruk instead signed to viewers, "I am addressing everybody who is deaf in Ukraine. Our president is Viktor Yushchenko. Do not trust the results of the central election committee. They are all lies.... And I am very ashamed to translate such lies to you. Maybe you will see me again." - Wikipedia
The courts ordered a new election, and this time Yushchenko emerged as the undisputed winner. Her bravery inspired Ukrainian journalists to issue public apologies and promise to tell the truth and Dmytruk received several awards for her act of courage.
I was so afraid you were going to say that they killed her. I just started crying anyway. I guess I needed to cry about something.
ReplyDeleteIt was a brave act and one that might have resulted in her death.
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