Chicago Honors the Historic Unity of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia in a Patriotic Celebration Embrace Freedom
August 23rd is a day etched in the history of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Thirty-five years ago, our three nations joined hands in the Baltic Way, forming a human chain that symbolized our shared yearning for freedom and unity. This day not only recalls our struggle to escape Soviet domination but also emphasizes the power of standing together to achieve our goals. This year’s celebration, Embrace Freedom – The Baltic Way in Chicago, echoed the same enthusiasm, patriotism, and pride we experienced back then.
Gathering with Fellow Countrymen and Friends in Chicago
This year, the commemoration of the Baltic Way took place on August 26 at Chicago’s Maggie Daley Park, with the city’s skyscrapers towering around us. The large crowd, proudly waving the flags of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, along with Ukraine’s tricolor, left no doubt about the significance of this event. Our community members expressed profound joy and pride in being part of this vital celebration. Representatives from the Latvian, Estonian, and Ukrainian communities and members of the Lithuanian National Guard and the Lithuanian American community came together as a strong symbol of unity. Consulates from Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia joined the event, offering brief remarks on the lasting importance of the Baltic Way, both in 1989 and today, especially for the diaspora of these nations.
“Bunda Jau Baltija” – A Song from the Heart
“Bunda Jau Baltija, Atmostas Baltija, Ärgake Baltimaad” – this song, a symbol of our region’s rebirth, became the anthem of the Baltic Way in 1989. Even today, when freedom is no longer a dream but a reality, these words still resonate deeply in our hearts. The song was sung together, with solemnity, as our brotherly nations’ voices merged into one.
A Patriotic Program to Remember
As we gathered, we sang the Baltic Way’s anthem and enjoyed performances by dance groups from all three nations. We listened to speeches by consular representatives and received greetings from the Ukrainian community. On August 23, Ukraine celebrates its National Flag Day, and on August 24, its Independence Day, marking the start of its independence in 1991. As an independent nation, Ukraine was among those who recognized Lithuania’s independence and fully supported the Baltic Way nations in their journey toward continued independence and its preservation. The gathering’s moments were captured by photographers on the ground and a drone flying overhead.
Patriotism and Unity
As members of the Lithuanian National Guard and the Lithuanian American, Latvian, Estonian, and Ukrainian communities, we felt immense pride in participating in such a celebration. Events like this remind us of our nation’s resilience, strength, and ability to unite despite significant challenges. Every moment spent with our brotherly neighbors and members of our Lithuanian community is invaluable.
Remembering the Past, Planning the Future
Just as the patriots of the Baltic countries once stood hand in hand in the Baltic Way, we stood together again in Chicago, united and determined. Our solidarity with the Latvian, Estonian, and Ukrainian communities demonstrates that the spirit of the Baltic Way is alive and continues to thrive. The significance of this unity is even more profound when we remember that the Baltic Way was a direct response to the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact. This secret agreement led to the occupation of our nations. It inspires us to work toward a robust, accessible, prosperous future built on respect, cooperation, and unity.
The Celebration’s Importance and Meaning
Events like this bring us together and allow us to reflect on how much we have achieved and how far we have come. It motivates us to strive for unity and freedom within our nations and the wider world. Everyone who attended this celebration left with a deep sense of freedom and pride, reminding us of our past and guiding us toward a bright future.
The Baltic Way – A Unifying Force for the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union at Home and Abroad
The Baltic Way, a living symbol of national resistance and unity, holds deep significance for the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union in Lithuania (Lietuvos šaulių sąjunga) and the diaspora. The Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union was one of the first paramilitary organizations restored in Lithuania in 1989, just before the Baltic Way. It played a key role in defending Lithuania’s independence during tragic events. For the diaspora Lithuanian National Guard, the Baltic Way was a strong motivator to continue advocating for Lithuania’s independence on the global stage, organizing support, and strengthening international ties. On August 25, members of the Lithuanian National Guard (the cultural branch of the LRU within the diaspora) stood hand in hand with other attendees, swearing to protect Lithuania’s independence and to preserve and pass on the legacy of freedom and unity to future generations.
We Are the Power of Freedom
I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to organizing and participating in this celebration. Without your efforts, this event would not have been so special. This gathering reminded us of our roots, strength, and unity, which we can proudly cherish. May the friendship between our nations continue to grow, and may the spirit of the Baltic Way live on in our hearts forever.
Long live Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Ukraine!
Silvija Motiejunas has been an active member of the Lithuanian National Guard’s “Klaipėda” Company since March 2024 and joined the LAC Marquette Park chapter board in June 2024. She is committed to preserving the history of the Lithuanian National Guard. Silvija records and shares events that matter to both Lithuanians and the wider community. Her work has appeared in local Lithuanian newspapers like “Draugas” and is now featured in the Chronicles and other parts of our website. Silvija’s writing reflects the spirit and activities that keep our cultural heritage alive.
