When we at CometX first decided to organize an event in Switzerland to celebrate November 17th in 2021, it wasn’t just about commemorating a historical milestone. We wanted to create a platform for dialogue, connection, and the sharing of values that have shaped our society and continue to influence it today. This idea arose from our personal experience of living abroad and our desire to commemorate the Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy and International Students’ Day even while in Switzerland. Since then, we have hosted a special edition of our event, Beer POTLA.CH, every year – a public debate. This time, we welcomed two professors from Swiss universities, Sylvie Graf and Jana Marečková, as our guests.
The idea to host a public debate came about quite unexpectedly during one of our regular meetings. We discussed where and how to commemorate November 17th and realized that the large expatriate community was not organizing anything. We concluded that the best way to celebrate and reflect on this significant day would be through a public debate. This allows us to bring the values of November 17th closer to expats in Zurich while offering insights from experts in various fields. These discussions explore not only the historical aspects but also the outlook and impact of the Velvet Revolution on the future of our society. Our goal wasn’t merely to celebrate a historical milestone but to create a space for reflecting on how freedom and democracy influence our daily lives and how we, as individuals, can actively protect these values.
We chose a panel discussion format where expert insights from various fields intertwine with ample opportunities for audience discussion, comments, and questions. This time, our guests were a social psychologist and an econometrician, who beautifully combined their personal perspectives with professional expertise. Together, we discussed topics such as historical parallels with 1989, societal transformation after the Velvet Revolution, and current challenges to democracy and freedom in connection with modern technologies.
„We still feel like we need to prove to others that we are full-fledged citizens. That’s something our generation carries from the past.“ - Sylvie Graf
The event was held, as usual, at the CzechIN Community Center in Zurich – CzechIN Český dům Zurich – and welcomed more than 60 attendees. The atmosphere was friendly yet deeply reflective and reminiscent, as some attendees had left for Switzerland because of the communist regime. After the opening speech and an introduction to CometX, I, as the moderator, spent nearly two hours discussing these themes with our guest speakers. The audience actively participated with questions and by sharing their personal experiences from the revolutionary period. As is often the case on November 17th, the most resonant discussions focused on the current political climate and the role of the individual in society. What moved us most was the openness of attendees to share their personal stories and opinions. It was clear that November 17th is not just a historical date but remains a powerful reminder of how essential it is to fight for one’s values.
One of the primary missions of all our events is to connect the Czech and Slovak communities in Switzerland. During the debate, participants exchanged not only ideas but also built new connections and networks among compatriots. A warm environment and traditional Czech refreshments always help break down barriers, allowing guests to engage with our speakers and organizers. The Beer POTLACH events demonstrate that even abroad, we can create a platform for deeper connection and collaboration among our expatriates. We look forward to continuing to celebrate and reflect on November 17th in the years to come.
„A centrally planned economy was doomed from the start. People had money but nothing to buy.“ - Jana Marečková
In addition, we are planning further events that will link historical topics with current challenges, opening up dialogue between different generations. I believe our community in Switzerland can be a catalyst for change and an inspiration to Czech and Slovak communities in other parts of the world.
We look forward to seeing you at more inspiring gatherings and networking events. We wish you all a year full of understanding, freedom, positivity, and connections with wonderful people.
Happy November 17th to everyone!
Adam Pruška, CometX
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