In order to break down resistance against Soviet colonization, Stalin ordered mass arrests and deportations to forcibly displace indigenous populations and secure the illegal Soviet annexation of all three Baltic nations.
The violent terror that Stalin imposed on the Baltic States, provoked a mass exodus of refugees in 1944, who fled the return of advancing Soviet forces – which brought with it mass human rights abuses and a new wave of repressions.
Millions fled, many arriving in Canada, where they found refuge and have contributed to building the prosperous, just and tolerant nation we know today.
Respecting COVID social distancing protocols, members of the Baltic communities are invited to individually place a candle at Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto between 7-8pm, in memory of the over 40,000 people deported on the night of June 14, 1941.
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