On December 16, 2024, the Bacău County Council unanimously voted to award the prestigious title of Honorary Citizen of Bacău County to Ion Fercu, renowned journalist, educator, and writer. This recognition highlights his outstanding contributions to education, literature, and journalism, spanning over five decades.
Born in 1952 in Valea lui Ion, Bacău, Ion Fercu distinguished himself as a dedicated teacher and a prominent cultural figure. A graduate of the Faculty of Philosophy at Al. I. Cuza University in Iași, he shaped the educational landscape as a teacher and school leader in Buhuși for decades. Alongside his role as an educator, Fercu emerged as a leading journalist with the Deșteptarea newspaper, where his bold and incisive writing earned him the Award of Excellence for his contributions to journalism.
Ion Fercu’s literary achievements are equally remarkable, with works ranging from poetry and essays to novels, such as „Through Dostoevskian Subterrains”, which earned him the prestigious Romanian Academy’s Ion Petrovici Award. A member of the Romanian Writers’ Union, his writings have influenced readers and critics alike, solidifying his status as a pillar of Romanian literature and cultural life.
In his acceptance speech, Ion Fercu delivered a heartfelt message, urging the community to prioritize the well-being of children. With moving references to literature and personal reflections, he emphasized the moral and emotional responsibility of society’s leaders toward future generations:
“If I were to redesign the coat of arms of my country, I would place the face of a child in search of happiness at its center, and I would ask you all to help them find it.”
The recognition of Ion Fercu as an Honorary Citizen not only honors his individual achievements but also symbolizes the deep respect for education, literature, and journalism in Bacău.
This event is a fitting tribute as Deșteptarea celebrates 35 years of existence—35 years of truth, courage, and excellence in journalism.
Bacău is here. And so is Ion Fercu.
