Also this year, part of the burned out candles will be turned into burial candles in support of the Ukrainian freedom fighters, informs Aija Ikstena, Head of the Corporate Communication and Sustainability Department of VNĪ.
Every year on November 11, Lāčpleš Day, candles are lit commemorating the victory of the Latvian state army over the West Russian volunteer army, or the so-called Bermont troops, on November 11, 1919 and honoring the memory of Latvian freedom fighters. On this day, lighting candles on the stone wall of Riga Castle is especially popular in the capital.
In order to preserve the restored perimeter wall of the Riga Castle and promote the possibilities of reusing candles, VNĪ invites you to choose candles filled in a glass frame, thus also protecting the restored stone wall of the castle from melted and environmentally unfriendly candle residues.
VNĪ has already installed the steel protective mesh designed by architect Pēteras Blum, which helps to protect the bricks of the historical wall of Riga Castle from irreversible thermal damage and sand bath on the sidewalk. The protective mesh intended for placing the candles is made of 175 sections, the length of which is 184 meters, and the width is one meter. 60 candles can be placed on one section of the protective mesh, but 10,500 candles can be placed along the entire length of the mesh.
For the past two years, around 200 kilograms of leftover candles have been collected at the Riga Castle wall after the Lāčpleš Day events every year, from which around 1,000 trench candles are made to support the Ukrainian freedom fighters. Also this year, they will be given to candle making master classes for processing into trench candles for sending to Ukraine.
VNĪ was established in 1996 and its sole owner is the Ministry of Finance.
Title: Lighting the Way to Freedom: An Interview with Aija Ikstena on Lāčpleš Day Initiatives
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Good morning, Aija! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. We are excited to learn more about the unique initiatives happening this November 11th, Lāčpleš Day.
Aija Ikstena: Good morning! Thank you for having me. I’m delighted to share our efforts this year.
Interviewer: Let’s start with the significance of Lāčpleš Day. For those unfamiliar, could you explain its importance in Latvian culture?
Aija Ikstena: Absolutely. Lāčpleš Day is celebrated on November 11th to commemorate the victory of Latvian forces over the German Landesweh during the War of Independence in 1920. It symbolizes our struggle for sovereignty and resilience as a nation. It’s a day filled with pride and remembrance.
Interviewer: And candles play a significant role in this commemoration, correct?
Aija Ikstena: Yes, they do! Lighting candles is a heartfelt tradition that honors not just our historical victories but also acknowledges those who have fought for freedom throughout the years. This year, we are taking it a step further.
Interviewer: I understand that part of the burned-out candles will be repurposed into burial candles for Ukrainian freedom fighters. Can you elaborate on this initiative?
Aija Ikstena: Certainly! In light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, we want to stand in solidarity with those fighting for their freedom. By transforming the candles we burn on Lāčpleš Day into burial candles, we pay tribute to the heroes who have sacrificed their lives. It’s a way of extending our support and recognition for their struggle, highlighting the universal fight for freedom.
Interviewer: That’s a very touching initiative. How do you think this resonates with the youth and the broader community in Latvia?
Aija Ikstena: It’s crucial, especially for the younger generation. They need to understand the importance of their heritage and the historical context of these struggles. By involving them in meaningful actions, like the candle lighting and supporting Ukraine, we foster a sense of connection and responsibility towards not just Latvia’s history but also current global issues. It encourages them to stand up for what’s right.
Interviewer: It seems like this initiative is more than just a commemoration; it’s also a call to action?
Aija Ikstena: Exactly! We hope to inspire a sense of unity and activism. Celebrating Lāčpleš Day this way emphasizes that the fight for freedom transcends borders and eras. We are not just lighting candles; we are igniting hope and demonstrating solidarity with others enduring similar struggles.
Interviewer: What are some ways people can get involved in this initiative and support the cause?
Aija Ikstena: People can participate by lighting candles on Lāčpleš Day, sharing the stories of both Latvian and Ukrainian freedom fighters, and spreading awareness on social media. Donations can also be made to support organizations working with those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Every little action counts!
Interviewer: Thank you, Aija, for shedding light on such a meaningful initiative. It’s inspiring to see how traditional observances can adapt to support current issues.
Aija Ikstena: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this! I hope this year’s Lāčpleš Day will foster not only remembrance but also action towards a more united and compassionate world.
Interviewer: We look forward to seeing the impact of this initiative. Have a wonderful Lāčpleš Day!
Aija Ikstena: Thank you! You too! Let’s keep the flame of freedom burning bright.