Mar 15 • 04:24 UTC 🇱🇹 Lithuania 15min

Day of the Lithuanian Jewish Rescuers Celebrated in Lithuania with Various Commemorative Events

Lithuania commemorates its Jewish rescuers with events across the country, including exhibitions, readings, and musical performances.

Lithuania is holding a series of commemorative events to honor its Jewish rescuers, with a notable exhibition opening in the Kaunas IX Fort Museum. This exhibition, titled 'Rescuers', focuses on the history of rescuing Jews in Kaunas during World War II. Additionally, in Šiauliai, a remembrance ceremony will take place at the Square of the Righteous Among the Nations, where names of the honored rescuers will be read aloud, and flowers and candles will be placed to commemorate their contributions.

On Monday, a literary-musical evening called 'Song of Memory' will be held at the Cultural Center Gallery 'Stairs' in Šiauliai. These events are part of a broader recognition of Jewish rescuers, with the main ceremony taking place at Vilnius University on Tuesday. This date, March 15, is significant as it marks the anniversary of the honorary title bestowed upon Ona Šimaitė, a librarian at Vilnius University, in 1966, recognizing her bravery and contributions to saving Jewish lives during the Nazi occupation.

Ona Šimaitė is remembered not only for her courageous actions during the war but also for her posthumous recognition, including receiving Lithuania's Crossing of the Dead Award in 2002. A tree dedicated to her memory grows in Jerusalem, symbolizing her legacy and commitment to helping others. These commemorative events reflect Lithuania's efforts to acknowledge and honor its heroes during one of the darkest periods in its history.

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