Three girls from Jelgava win Latvia's place in the European Cultural Heritage competition finals
Three Jelgava girls have successfully secured Latvia's spot in the finals of the European Cultural Heritage competition.
Three young girls from Jelgava, Loreta, Evelīna, and Sofija, have earned Latvia a position in the finals of the European Cultural Heritage competition through their creative video narratives that highlight and preserve important elements of Latvian cultural heritage. Using the metaphor of a traditional rye bread loaf, they presented various cultural stories associated with Latvia, emphasizing the importance of passing these values to future generations.
Loreta, one of the participants, pointed out the significance of white embroidery work, which she believes has unjustly been removed from school curriculums. As a student from Jelgava Spīdolas State Gymnasium, she expressed her connection to Latvian folk dance and the presence of these embroidery works in traditional costumes, stressing that if they are not discussed and preserved, they will be lost. Through her narrative, she aims to remind others of the value of these cultural histories.
Evelīna, another participant, showcased novuss, a traditional Latvian board game recognized on the national intangible cultural heritage list. Her presentation serves as a testament to the richness of Latvian culture and the importance of acknowledging and celebrating these elements. The initiatives undertaken by these girls not only contribute to the ongoing discourse about Latvian traditions but also inspire a broader appreciation for cultural heritage among their peers and the public.