You’re likely familiar with the World War I army recruitment poster where Uncle Sam is pointing his finger directly toward the viewer, declaring “I Want You” in bold font. Uncle Sam is wearing a blue coat, a stars-and-stripes top hat, and a serious scowl. He wants you to enlist in the American army.
Now picture a similar poster. But in this one, it’s an Estonian wearing rahvariided, flashing a polite, yet cautious, smile. And he’s not pointing at you; Estonians are too reserved to do that. But he still wants you. In this case though, to join the Estonian American National Council (EANC). Which is not an army; it’s more of a do-good cavalry advancing eestlus in the United States.
Founded in 1952 during the struggle for re-independence, the EANC is a non-profit organization that strives to champion Estonian identity, culture, language, and traditions. We also aim to create awareness of Estonian causes throughout the general public.
Council members, after declaring their candidacy, are elected by other Estonian Americans. And the next round of elections is upon us, taking place over the next few months – could you be a candidate?
Do you care passionately about Estonian causes in the United States? Do you have ideas for advancing those ambitions? Do you want to engage with like-minded estophiles for the greater good?
Although we are like-minded in the pursuit of Estonian culture and advocacy, we are varied in geographic distribution and age spread. And that’s a great attribute for an organization. Members hail from the west coast, the east coast, and various locations in between. And in similar fashion, from Baby Boomer to Gen Z, we span the experiences and talents particular to each individual generation. And that’s a great attribute for dialog, perspective diversity, and problem solving.
If Onu Sam is speaking to you, please visit https://www.estosite.org/elections/ for additional information about the process and key dates. Your candidacy is a proud statement of your affinity for all things Estonian. And if elected, your position on the Council will be the exclamation point.
Andres Simonson
Council Member,
Estonian American National Council
(Eesti Rahvuskomitee Ühendriikides)
