Members of the “Zmajevo srce” (Dragon’s Heart) Club from Tuzla, an organization that brings together people with Down syndrome, their families, and friends, are preparing to complete what they say will be the largest flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The project is intended as a show of support for the national football team ahead of the World Cup.
The giant flag is scheduled to be unveiled on June 12 at Freedom Square in Tuzla, before the national team’s opening match. Club member Saša Šunjka expressed gratitude to everyone who supported the initiative.
“I want to thank everyone for supporting us. On June 12, we will spread our biggest flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina on Freedom Square,” said Šunjka.
According to Omer Isović, President of the Zmajevo srce Club, the flag symbolizes unity, tolerance, and love.
“It represents a symbol of togetherness, a symbol of tolerance and ultimately love, especially at this moment when our national team is going to the World Cup and when we all generally expect a good result from our national team,” Isović said.
The project has received support from numerous friends, business partners, municipalities, and cities across Tuzla Canton. Following its presentation in Tuzla, the flag will be displayed at the Old Town of Srebrenik and the Tower of the Dragon of Bosnia in Gradačac. Organizers also plan for the flag to be featured in fan zones on June 18 and June 24, when Bosnia and Herzegovina faces Switzerland and Qatar.
Tuzla Mayor Zijad Lugavić praised the initiative, describing it as an example of successful inclusion within society.
“This is another proof of how inclusion has entered all spheres of society and how all people of our city and our society can give good ideas and serve as examples of how to promote the quality and unity of our country together,” Lugavić said.
Srebrenik Mayor Adnan Bjelić also welcomed the project, emphasizing its patriotic significance.
“The idea of bringing the biggest flag to Srebrenik was accepted very positively, especially at a time when patriotism in Bosnia and Herzegovina is at a higher level than it has been in many years. I am particularly pleased that this flag will find its place in our Old Town of Srebrenik,” Bjelić said.
The long-term goal of the Zmajevo srce Club is to display the giant flag in as many cities and communities across Bosnia and Herzegovina as possible, promoting both love for the homeland and inclusion as fundamental values for building a stronger and more connected society, BHRT writes.
