Red and black symbolize Ukraine's liberation struggle

Poland's President Karol Nałęczowski is proposing legislation to ban "Banderite symbolism." The red and black colors, used by Ukrainian Cossacks and later by the Legion of Ukrainian Sich Riflemen in 1916, symbolize Ukraine's national liberation struggle. The colors represent "earth and blood," a concept popularized by writer Vasyl Stefanyk. The red and black flag was adopted by the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN-B) in 1941 and also used by the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA). These colors are also prevalent in Ukrainian folk culture, appearing in embroidery and songs.