this article explores the motivations behind choosing Daugavpils, Latvia, as the location for a conference focusing on the Polish minority in the Baltic States.The choice was deemed a intentional attempt to stimulate local engagement, moving beyond established academic hubs like Vilnius, riga, and Kaunas.
The event aims to delve into various historical and contemporary aspects of Polish presence in the Baltic countries, including a discussion on the future of this community. Several renowned academics will be presenting,covering topics like the role of the Riga Catholic seminary during the Soviet era,the influence of Countess Maria Tyszkiewiczowna,and the historical significance of Krāslava for Poles in Latvia,amongst others.
the organizers believe this conference, notably in a less “visible” city like Daugavpils, could spark new connections and collaborations, potentially bridging the gap between Lithuania and Latvia, long separated geographically and academically.
The article ends by suggesting that despite efforts to connect, the geographical distance and lack of established academic ties still create a sense of disconnect between Vilnius and Daugavpils, highlighting a persistent challenge in fostering closer relationships between these historically and culturally intertwined regions.
How can organizations effectively foster connections between the Polish minority in the Baltic States and local communities?
Interview: Exploring the Polish Minority conference in Daugavpils, Latvia
Time.news Editor: Welcome, and thank you for joining us today. We’re excited to discuss the upcoming conference in Daugavpils, Latvia, which focuses on the Polish minority in the Baltic States. To dive deeper into this topic, we have Dr. Anna Kowalska, an expert in baltic history and minority studies.Dr. Kowalska, what motivated the choice of Daugavpils as the conference location?
Dr. Anna Kowalska: Thank you for having me! Choosing Daugavpils was indeed a strategic move. The organizers aimed to stimulate local engagement and innovation by stepping away from the conventional academic hubs like Vilnius, Riga, and Kaunas.Daugavpils, being a less “visible” city, offers a unique opportunity to foster new connections and collaborations in a community that is frequently enough overlooked.
Time.news Editor: that sounds intriguing! Could you elaborate on the themes that will be explored during the conference concerning the Polish presence in the Baltic countries?
Dr. Anna Kowalska: Absolutely. The conference will cover a extensive range of topics, including historical and contemporary perspectives. As an example, discussions will highlight the role of the Riga Catholic seminary during the Soviet era and the significant influence of Countess Maria Tyszkiewiczowna on Polish culture in the region.we will also examine the historical significance of Krāslava for poles living in latvia. Such discussions aim to shed light on the complexities of Polish identity in the Baltic framework.
Time.news editor: Fascinating! How do you foresee this conference impacting connections between Lithuania and Latvia, especially given the geographical distance you mentioned?
Dr. Anna Kowalska: The hope is that the conference will bridge some of that disconnect. Historically and culturally, Lithuania and Latvia share intertwined narratives, yet academic ties are frequently enough lacking due to geographical challenges. By bringing together academics and local stakeholders in Daugavpils, we aspire to ignite dialogue and possibly establish collaborative networks that can transcend borders.
Time.news Editor: Considering the persistent sense of disconnect,what practical advice would you offer to organizations aiming to strengthen ties between these regions?
Dr. Anna Kowalska: My advice would be to prioritize local engagement through events like this conference. Establishing community forums and workshops can empower local voices and create a platform for exchange. It’s essential to cultivate relationships that appreciate the unique historical contexts of each region while promoting cross-border initiatives.Additionally, leveraging digital platforms can definitely help maintain ongoing dialogue, even from a distance.
Time.news Editor: Great suggestions! what long-term implications do you see arising from discussions held at this conference, especially for the polish minority in the Baltic States?
Dr. Anna Kowalska: The long-term implications could be significant. By creating a space for open discussion about the polish minority’s past and future, we can foster a greater understanding of their role in the Baltic landscape. Such initiatives can contribute to a sense of belonging and recognition among the Polish community, potentially influencing policies regarding minority rights and cultural preservation. It’s about building a shared future while acknowledging deeply rooted histories.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr.Kowalska, for sharing your insights. We look forward to the outcomes of the conference in daugavpils and the impact it may have on cultural and academic connections in the Baltic States.
Dr.Anna Kowalska: Thank you for having me! I’m equally eager to see how this conference unfolds and its potential to reshape the narrative around the polish minority in the region.