Zubr (Bison) announced today interruption of all its activities under ZUBR brand and continuation of its struggle against the regime within the wide national movement. In my opinion, this is a positive stride. During the campaign, we had an abundance of youth groups trying to brand themselves as Pora (Ukraine), Khmara (Georgia) or Otpor (Serbia). Sometimes, it was hard to tell the difference. Their activities were not quite coordinated, goals and missions varied.
We had Zubr (Bison), Chas (Time), Chopic (Enough), Malady Front (Young Front), 3 Slach (Third Way), and others. Even “For Freedom,” which is now turning into a brand name for the united democratic forces, was initially a youth initiative.
Another thing is that I entirely disagree with the color choice during the campaign. The “denim” idea was introduced by Zubr, and I don’t know how it ended up as the main color theme. It is curious that the most active, vibrant part of Milinkevich’s HQ opposed to the jeans idea, and still it was chosen.
Clearly there are many reasons behind the Zubr’s decision to abandon their brand name and join the united movement. This is a good example for others to follow. At this point, there are many causes to bury the hatchet for those who feuded or competed in the past.