In a world where federal cutbacks threaten long-standing support programs, there remains a strong hope that the values of freedom, liberty, and democracy will endure. Amid discussions of budget reductions, it’s important not to overlook the positive impact the United States has had globally. A recent story from a young man in Russia highlights this influence.
On a train journey across Siberia, a young Russian named Sergei, who was just 18, struck up a conversation with a traveler. To the traveler’s surprise, Sergei spoke perfect American English without any accent. When asked about his background, Sergei revealed he had never been to the United States. Instead, he learned English by listening to broadcasts from Radio Free Europe.
Sergei shared how he became fascinated with democracy and freedom through these broadcasts. He recounted an incident during a class project where he spoke about the Soviet military’s invasion of Afghanistan. His teacher, alarmed by his comments, accused him of spreading Western propaganda. She took him home and insisted that his mother throw out his radio to stop him from listening to Radio Free Europe.
However, Sergei’s mother made a promise to him. She told him that if he didn’t tell anyone, he could keep the radio. He vowed to keep it a secret and continued to listen to the broadcasts under his pillow. This act of defiance allowed him to stay informed about the world outside of Soviet propaganda.
Sergei was inspired by the voices he heard on the radio. When he mentioned his upcoming trip to the United States, he expressed excitement about meeting the people he considered his heroes—the journalists and broadcasters from Radio Free Europe. This emotional connection highlighted the profound effect these programs had on individuals living under oppressive regimes.
The story of Sergei is a powerful reminder of the importance of free speech and access to information. As concerns grow over the future of Radio Free Europe, it’s crucial to acknowledge the dedication of its staff and the hope they have provided to many like Sergei. Their work has made a significant difference in promoting the values of freedom and democracy around the world.