This year marks 76 years since the March deportations—one of the most tragic chapters in our nation’s history. It was a time when innocent people were repressed, deported, and executed simply because a totalitarian regime deemed them unfit.
Today, more than three generations later, we once again witness crimes against humanity in the world. In Ukraine, innocent people are being attacked, homes destroyed, and human rights violated. We, who have endured similar pain and injustice, must not remain silent..
The Day of Remembrance on March 25th reminds us that history must not repeat itself . The lessons of the past must guide us in defending freedom and human dignity everywhere in the world.
As Estonians, we know what it means to live under foreign rule, to lose loved ones and one’s homeland. That is why it is our moral duty to support those who are fighting for their freedom today. The people of Ukraine need our support—not just words of sympathy, but actions. We must not be indifferent.
On March 25th, we light candles in memory of those who were deported to Siberia and in honor of those who suffer today. We remember, we reflect, and we stand together for justice—so that such crimes will never happen again..