ZMOS: Matica Slovenska's Role Still Relevant Today

Bratislava, 4 August (TASR) - The role of national heritage institution Matica Slovenska and its regional units is relevant even today, said Slovak Towns and Villages Association (ZMOS) chairman Jozef Bozik on the occasion of Matica Slovenska's founding anniversary on Monday. Bozik thinks that tasks such as preserving traditions, raising national awareness and promoting cultural identity require the support of the entire society, all the way from the state to local governments. "ZMOS extends sincere gratitude to the founders of Matica Slovenska, such as Stefan Moyzes, Karol Kuzmany, Jozef Miloslav Hurban and others, whose vision, courage and determination laid the groundwork for preserving and developing the Slovak language, culture and education," he stated. In this connection, he pointed out that ZMOS appreciates this effort and cooperates with local branches, explaining that they are both taking part in organising cultural, historical and social events. "Such cooperation is proof that Matica Slovenska's values still live on in the 21st century, in communities, schools, libraries, cultural centres or on squares in our towns and villages," he added. Matica Slovenska was set up in Turciansky Svaty Martin (Zilina region) on 4 August 1863 at the height of efforts to unite Slovaks across societal and religious boundaries. This historical milestone is commemorated on 4 August every year based on a respective act adopted by Parliament in October 1993. jrg/df/ko