Several hundreds of people participated in a torch-lit march in Vilnius
Hundreds of participants in Vilnius gathered for a torch-lit march to commemorate the values of freedom and national identity.
On a Monday evening, several hundred people convened at the Gate of Dawn and the monument to Jonas Basanavičius, one of the signatories of the Act of February 16, before marching towards Lukiškės Square in Vilnius. Participants carried torches, the national tricolor flag, and the Pahonia flag, all embodying national symbolism. Prior to the march, attendees took part in prayers and sang a hymn, reinforcing their collective spirit and national pride.
Among the participants was 39-year-old Agnė Kertokė, who attended the march with her five-year-old daughter. She expressed her intent to instill significant values in her child, stating, "When raising a child, I want to impart the values that are important to me as well as to our state from a young age. Having a sense of community and internal freedom, where you can be who you want and live the way you want, is something crucial to pass on to my child." This sentiment resonates with many at the event, emphasizing the importance of nurturing national identity through family and community involvement.
Marius Parčiauskas, deputy chairman of the National Union party and a reserve officer, noted his participation in this event for the seventh time, emphasizing its significance in commemorating the restoration of their state and the freedom to create a nation based on their own values. This event serves not only as a memorial but also as a powerful reminder of the ongoing importance of national sovereignty and unity, especially in the current geopolitical context.