Eva Viežnaviec emphasizes the importance of preserving the Belarusian language and culture in challenging times, highlighting its role in national identity and emotional connection to one’s homeland.
Eva Viežnaviec is a cultural figure dedicated to preserving the Belarusian language, culture, and authenticity of storytelling during challenging times. She actively participates in public discussions, asserting that language and culture are foundational to a nation's survival. Having worked as a journalist for various independent media projects in Belarus, she focuses on these critical themes, underscoring her commitment to cultural preservation through her work.
Reflecting on her own upbringing, Viežnaviec reveals that she spoke only Belarusian until the age of 18, with exposure to Russian mainly through television. Now residing in Warsaw, she writes exclusively in Belarusian, exploring topics related to Belarusian history and the preservation of national and cultural memory. She believes that one's native language is a fundamental form of memory and a strong emotional bond with their country, asserting that individuals who are assimilated may struggle with their identity if their native language does not align with their childhood experiences.
Viežnaviec argues that the loss of memory represents a grave tragedy, leading to confusion and vulnerability among individuals and nations. Her poignant observations reflect the profound complexities of cultural identity, emphasizing the current struggles faced by Belarus in maintaining its linguistic heritage amidst challenging political and social landscapes.
