Znaniye Educational Marathon: Moscow’s Unity Event 2024

President Vladimir Putin met with representatives of the indigenous peoples of Russia on April 30, 2026, marking the first observance of the Day of Indigenous Peoples of Russia. The meeting took place at the Znaniye.The First federal educational marathon in Moscow, according to a statement released by the Kremlin.

The Day of Indigenous Peoples of Russia was established by Presidential Executive Order on November 4, 2025. President Putin emphasized the importance of unity among all peoples of Russia, stating that they form “a single family” and that this unity is a source of strength.

“Why do you think I am sending my greetings to all Russian citizens? In fact, no matter whether you belong to an ethnic majority or minority, all the peoples of Russia form a single family, and this is what makes us strong.”

President of Russia Vladimir Putin

Putin highlighted that Russia is home to 47 indigenous peoples, each considered an integral part of the country and keepers of unique traditions, cultures, and ways of life. He stressed the importance of recognizing a shared heritage among all ethnic groups within Russia.

Prior to the meeting with indigenous representatives, President Putin visited the Znaniye.Heroes exhibition, which honored individuals who have demonstrated heroism in the special military operation. He was accompanied by Maxim Dreval, Director General of the Znaniye Society, and veterans Rodion and Kristina Puiko, who participated in the special military operation.

The Znaniye.The First educational marathon, held from April 28-30 at the Manezh exhibition hall in Moscow, was dedicated to the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia. The event coincided with the first celebration of the Day of Indigenous Peoples of Russia.

The Znaniye Society also played a role in the World Youth Festival (WYF) 2024, serving as the general partner of the educational program. The marathon Knowledge.First was a key event within the WYF’s educational framework, according to the organization’s website. Maxim Dreval, Director General of the Russian Knowledge Society, greeted participants at the event.

In a separate event on April 30, 2025, President Putin met with participants of the Znaniye.The First educational marathon at the Central Museum of the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945 on Poklonnaya Gora. That marathon was dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory and was attended by over 25,000 young people, including international participants. Over the course of three days, 134 speakers addressed audiences, including veterans, participants in the special military operation, and various professionals.