“September 2019 will mark 75 years since the huge exodus of Estonians fleeing from the oncoming Soviet terror. Fleeing was difficult both mentally and physically. It brought about a drastic change in life circumstances and resulted in a tragic end for many” – so writes Iivi Zajedova, at whose instigation the Estonian World Council (EWC) adopted a resolution sent to the Estonian government to establish an official national day commemorating this event. The goal is to achieve this for the 75th anniversary.
The Great Refugee Flight has not yet been officially commemorated in Estonia. The first step will take place September 19, 2018 in Jaani kirik (St. John’s church) in Tallinn, with the participation of Archbishop Urmas Viilma.
EWC strongly requests that church services or other commemorations in U.S. Estonian societies take place between September 15 and 23, 2018, if possible, to show the importance of this day of commemoration and to support this initiative.
Please send information by August 24, 2018 about the events in the U.S. – where, when and time of services or ceremonies – to [email protected]. Your support will help in the establishment of this official national day of commemoration in Estonia.
Estonian World Council