- This event has passed.
The Influence of Lithuanian Displaced Persons (DPs) in the U.S.
September 15 @ 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm CDT
$15Celebrating the Legacy of Lithuanian Displaced Persons (DPs) and Their Impact on U.S. Communities
This event kicks off a year-long commemoration at the Lithuanian Studies Research Center, celebrating Dipukai Years (2024-2025) to honor the Lithuanian people who were displaced during the mass exodus to the West in 1944-1945, known as the Dipukai Emigration and this period marked a turning point in the history of the Lithuanian diaspora, shaping the formation of Lithuanian communities abroad and the preservation of cultural identity far from home.
Key Focus Areas
The nine series of lectures and discussions planned throughout the year will cover the following:
Historical Significance: Understanding the reasons behind the departure, the conditions faced by Lithuanians during and after WWII, and the impact of the Displaced Persons (DP) camps.
Cultural Legacy: Exploring how Lithuanian traditions, language, and identity were preserved within the new Lithuanian colonies in the West.
Diaspora Formation: Analyzing the role of the Dipukai in shaping strong Lithuanian communities in countries such as the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Western Europe.
First Event Details
This inaugural lecture will set the tone for the entire series by focusing on contributions made by Lithuanian Displaced Persons (DPs) in the United States. Dr. Robertas Vitas, a noted scholar in Lithuanian diaspora studies, will discuss these communities’ economic, demographic, and scientific impact on the U.S. and their efforts to maintain a strong Lithuanian identity in a foreign land.
- Date: September 15th, 2024
- Time: 12:30 PM
- Location: Lithuanian Studies Research Center, 15533 129th Street, Lemont, IL 60439
- Speaker: Dr. Robertas Vitas is a Lithuanian history and diaspora studies expert. He has written extensively about Lithuanian contributions to American society and the unique challenges Displaced Persons (DPs) faced post-WWII.
- Donation: $15 (All proceeds support the Lithuanian Research Center and its ongoing projects.)
- Refreshments: Light refreshments will be provided after the lecture, allowing attendees to network and further discuss the topic with Dr. Vitas and other Lithuanian community members.
During the lecture, Dr. Vitas will focus on the key topics, such as:
- How Lithuanian DPs integrated into U.S. society while maintaining their cultural heritage.
- The creation of Lithuanian colonies and communities in cities like Chicago and New York.
- Lithuanian communities’ economic and demographic growth in the U.S., with particular emphasis on the contributions of DPs in fields such as science, technology, and business.
- The role of Lithuanian organizations in helping DPs transition into their new lives.
This event is not just a look back at history but a celebration of the Lithuanian people’s resilience, their ability to rebuild lives in new lands, and their commitment to preserving their cultural identity. Through this lecture series, attendees will gain insight into how the struggles and successes of the Dipukai have left a lasting legacy on Lithuanian diaspora communities worldwide.
Why You Should Attend?
- Gain a deeper understanding of Lithuanian diaspora history and the significant contributions of Lithuanian Displaced Persons (DPs).
- Connect with the Lithuanian community and engage in meaningful discussions about cultural preservation and identity.
- Support the Lithuanian Research Center’s mission to keep Lithuanian history and heritage alive for future generations.
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore this essential chapter of Lithuanian history and learn about the remarkable resilience of the Dipukai and their lasting impact on today’s diaspora communities.