CONFERENCE 'NO SIMPLE STORIES II' TOOK PLACE AT THE LITHUANIAN EMBASSY
On 17th December 2012, the second Conference ‘No Simple Stories: Lithuanian Jewry in Historical Perspective’ was opened at the Lithuanian Embassy in London. Leading historians, scholars and diplomats gathered in London to talk about the past, the present and the future of Lithuanian Jews. The Jewish communities from Lithuania and the UK were represented by Ms Faina Kukliansky, Deputy President of the Jewish Community of Lithuania, and Mr Vivian Winemann, President of the Board of Deputies of British Jews. Photo 1: Welcome speech by Ms.Faina Kukliansky, President of the Jewish Community of Lithuania
The Ambassador of Lithuania Asta Skaisgirytė Liauškienė in her opening remarks drew attention of the conference on what is being done by the Lithuanian Government in preserving the culture and memory of the Jewish people. The three main avenues that the government is pursuing, namely: ensuring historical justice, uprooting anti-semitism and research and preservation of the Jewish culture and heritage, were presented. “We are committed to establishing the historical justice and fighting anti-semitism in all its forms” said the Ambassador. In the spirit of the 2009 Vilnius World Litvak Congress, the Ambassador reiterated, ‘Lithuania will always be home for all Litvaks all over the world’. Ms Faina Kukliansky extended warm greetings to the conference from the Lithuanian Jewish Community and pointed out to the “rainbow of diversity” which characterises the spectrum of opinions among its members. She emphasised, however, the overarching importance of cooperation between the Jewish organisations worldwide and encouraged all to work together.
The Law on Good Will Compensation for the immovable Property of Jewish religious communities recently adopted by the Lithuanian Parliament received approval of the conference. Special emphasis was laid on the vital importance of education and the role of the political elite, media and intellectuals in promoting tolerant and democratic society.
New ventures by the non-governmental organisations, including “The Northern Jerusalem” initiative and the Centre of Litvaks Culture and Arts in Vilnius were received with great interest by the conference.
Photo 2: Dr. Darius Staliunas presents his book 'Pragmatic Alliance'
Photo 3: Audience
