Azerbaijan Society of America Commemorates May 28, 1918
The Founding of Azerbaijan’s First Secular Democratic Republic
The Azerbaijan Society of America proudly commemorates May 28, 1918, the historic day when the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was established as the first secular parliamentary republic in the Muslim world.
Founded after the collapse of the Russian Empire, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic represented a landmark achievement in democratic governance, civil liberties, and national self-determination. Despite its short existence from 1918 to 1920, the republic laid the foundation for modern Azerbaijani statehood and introduced progressive reforms well ahead of its time.
Among its historic accomplishments, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic granted women the right to vote in 1918 preceding many Western democracies, established a multi-party parliamentary system, promoted equal rights regardless of ethnicity or religion, and prioritized education and diplomatic engagement with the international community.
The founding of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic remains a source of pride for Azerbaijanis and supporters of democracy worldwide. May 28 is not only a celebration of Azerbaijan’s independence and democratic heritage, but also a reminder of the enduring values of secularism, pluralism, and national unity.
The organization encourages Azerbaijani Americans, community leaders, scholars, and friends of Azerbaijan to reflect on the republic’s legacy and its continuing significance in shaping the country’s modern identity and democratic aspirations.
May 28 is celebrated annually in Azerbaijan as Independence Day, honoring the visionary leaders who established the nation’s first independent republic and contributed to the advancement of democratic ideals in the region.
About the Azerbaijan Society of America
The Azerbaijan Society of America is dedicated to promoting awareness of Azerbaijani history, culture, and heritage in the United States while fostering dialogue, education, and friendship between the American and Azerbaijani people.
