Petition
The representatives and members of Lithuania’s cultural community – artists, curators, writers, designers, architects, musicians, dancers, film and theater directors, actors, critics, museum workers, librarians, researchers, producers, leaders of NGOs and festivals, cultural workers and citizens – express our deepest concern regarding the recent “switcharoo” – the Government’s decision to trade the Ministry of Culture as a pawn in their negotiations with the Nemuno Aušra political party. This party, known for its populist, antisemitic, and pro-Russian rhetoric, paid little to no attention to culture in their political program. Moreover, it has shown to have neither the required competencies to govern this extremely important part of the country’s life, nor a commitment to protect culture and its autonomy.
MANIFESTO of the Lithuanian Cultural Assembly Initiative Group for the 5 October Warning Strike
This is not the first time we have come together for a shared goal.
But this may be the last time that…
culture is the common language we all share;
culture inspires us, nurtures us, and gives us courage;
culture unites us in maturity, responsibility, and strength;
we freely invite culture into our theatres, libraries, museums, cinemas, and concert halls;
culture is everywhere: in our cities, towns, villages, and courtyards;
culture gives meaning to our future;
culture belongs to everyone and each of us – not just “them.”
This may be the last time that…
we are united;
we believe in community;
we take to the streets and squares;
we stand up against contempt, chaos, and lies;
we speak out loudly for freedom and democracy;
we are free to name Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis and hear The Sea;
we declare a firm “no” to nemuno aušra at the Ministry of Culture.
THIS MAY BE THE LAST TIME we strike for Lithuania.
THIS MAY BE THE LAST TIME we create and gather freely.