On Sunday, August 23, 2026, Vancouver’s Estonian, Latvian, and Lithuanian communities united at the Estonian Church and Community Hall to host a Black Ribbon Day and Baltic Way remembrance. Reflecting a shared commitment to the ongoing fight for freedom, the event also welcomed guests from Ukraine, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Myanmar.
The day began with a beautifully arranged church service led by Pastor Andres Rebane with guest speakers including Alar Olljum, Estonian diplomat, and various representatives from Lithuanian, Latvian and Ukrainian communities. Designed to be deeply inclusive, the service reminded everyone of the vital importance of gratitude. A fantastic turnout of 50 attendees filled the church, which was followed by a lovely community luncheon led by Viivi Alexander with contributions from Baltic community members and lastly a flag parade around the city block.
Black Ribbon Day is an International Day of Remembrance for victims of totalitarian and authoritarian regimes. Gathering representatives from across the Baltics, Ukraine, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Myanmar underscored a vital truth: the need to reject extremism, intolerance, and oppression is both global and urgent. The deeply moving personal stories shared by the speakers reminded everyone that while many have made the ultimate sacrifice for democratic values, the struggle for freedom is far from over. Together, our communities stand united because we are stronger together.
Read the complete commemoration recap at Eesti Elu »
Photos: I. Soide / A. Stanley
