Seventy-five years have passed since the infamous Molotov-Ribbentrop pact was signed on August 23, 1939, creating a partnership between two totalitarian regimes that resulted in the second world war and horrendous crimes against humanity.
Twenty-five years ago, also on August 23rd, people in all three Baltic countries joined hand-in-hand to form the Baltic Way from Tallinn to Riga to Vilnius.
This event stands as a unique expression of peaceful protest.
It’s important that we of Latvian heritage or affinity continue to mark these occasions, especially in light of the situation in Ukraine.
In 2009, the Canadian Parliament passed a resolution declaring August 23rd Black Ribbon Day, an annual day of remembrance commemorating the victims of the Nazi and Soviet regimes.
The Black Ribbon Day event in Edmonton will be held at the Alberta Legislature Building on Saturday, August 23, from 2:30 – 3:30 pm.
Entrance is through the main doors.
Elevator access into the building is through the east entrance only.
For seniors arriving by taxi or anyone else needing elevator access, tell the security guard at the gate that you need to go to the east door.
We hope for a good turn-out from the Latvian community.
Additional information:
http://www.balticway.net
http://www.blackribbonday.org
