In Kyiv, a mural featuring a quote from Kateryna Handziuk has been restored after it was once again painted over by unknown vandals
This vibrant graphic artwork, located on Poshtova Square in the city center, is not only an artistic memorial to the activist but also a symbol of the fight for justice and against impunity in Ukraine. According to the public organization “Who Ordered Katya Handziuk,” it unexpectedly turned out that just the day before, the mural was almost entirely erased — it disappeared from the urban landscape without any explanation. This happened on June 16, and the news quickly spread, sparking active discussions on social media and in local media outlets. The mural with Kateryna Handziuk’s quote first appeared here back in 2019. At that time, it became an important element of an informal memorial, alongside which numerous remembrance events were held. It has also been used to spread vital messages and draw attention to the ongoing issues of deep-rooted systemic crimes that remain unpunished to this day. As is well known, Kateryna Handziuk was not just an activist but also a symbol of Ukrainian resistance. She participated in the Orange Revolution, Euromaidan in Kherson, and was one of the co-founders of the Public Journalism Agency “MOST.” This non-profit media organization investigated corruption schemes within government structures in Kherson region, striving to bring the truth to Ukrainians. In addition, she actively supported internally displaced persons who became victims of the occupation of Crimea and the war in eastern Ukraine. Kateryna’s premature death occurred in 2018. On July 31 of that year, the activist was viciously attacked — she was doused with sulfuric acid. The severe burns she suffered covered over 35% of her skin and eventually led to serious complications. After more than ten surgeries and prolonged treatment, Kateryna passed away in December 2018 — just a few months after the attack. This heinous crime caused widespread resonance across the country, with society and activists demanding that the perpetrators be found and held accountable. Six individuals, including those responsible for the attack, have been convicted in connection with her murder; however, justice continues to unfold. In 2023, the Dniprovsky Court of Kyiv issued two more sentences: Vladyslav Manger and Oleksiy Levin were sentenced to ten years in prison for organizing the attack. Meanwhile, the appeal process is ongoing, and according to activists, the defense teams of the accused are trying to delay the proceedings in order to postpone punishment and evade justice. The recent disappearance of the mural on Poshtova Square has become yet another challenge for the civic movement and a symbol that, even in modern Ukraine, the fight for truth and memory is ongoing. Activists and human rights defenders emphasize that this image of Kateryna should remain in the hearts of the public, serving as a reminder of the human cost of activism and the importance of resisting all forms of injustice. Restoring the mural is not only an act of respect but also an important message to everyone fighting for the truth, despite obstacles or lack of visible results.