Rinkēvičs: experiences of repression must be spoken about openly

President Edgars Rinkēvičs, in an address to participants of the 27th gathering of Latvia's politically repressed persons held in Ikšķile, said that memories of the deportations and repressions of 1941 and 1949 may seem unbelievable and unimaginable today, but they truly happened and must not be forgotten.

The president stressed that these experiences must be talked about, and talked about loudly — both by the repressed themselves and by their families, since these accounts form an important part of Latvia's history. He noted that the wrongs inflicted by foreign powers were sometimes so severe that even silence between words carries meaning.

Gratitude for sharing stories

Rinkēvičs thanked everyone who continues to share their stories about life in Siberian camps, noting this is especially important for Latvia's younger generation. He said it was through the contribution of the repressed that Latvia regained its freedom, and that the country's shared task now is to defend its independence, something the experience of the repressed helps people understand.

Saeima speaker's address

Saeima Speaker Daiga Mieriņa also addressed participants, saying that the fates of politically repressed people and their unbroken faith in Latvia have become an inseparable part of the nation's history and conscience. She thanked them for their loyalty at a time when it came at the highest price.

Mieriņa added that it remains a duty to continue restoring historical justice for these people, noting that legislative amendments recently passed by the Saeima strengthen this process. She said this represents the state's recognition of the dignity of people who suffered for the idea of Latvia's freedom and for human dignity.