History of Lithuanian Nationalism

There have been numerous articles written recently about Lithuania. The more information there is about a nation which stands on the path of its own independence, after so many years of silence, so many years of a cruel and illegal occupation, the better not just for Lithuania itself, but also for all peace-loving peoples in the world.

Unfortunately, there appear from time to time some articles and editorial comments which distort the situation in Lithuania. One such piece is “Recalling the Dark Past of Lithuanian Nationalism” (Opinion, April 29) written by Benjamin Frankel and Brian D. Kux.

I am completely opposed to the linkage of the events of the past to those of the present desire of Lithuania to re-establish its independence. There have been difficult moments in our history. No one can deny this. These moments require diligent, objective research and scholarship. However, I find it appalling that some would require Lithuanians to give up their desire for independence because some deviants slaughtered the innocent in 1941-1944, while Lithuania was occupied.

There is no genetically inherited blame. There have been three new generations in Lithuanian. These people want to create a new, free and independent life and to live with the peoples of the Soviet Union as good neighbors. They deserve our congratulations and our support. I would hope that the free press of the United States would champion the cause of the Lithuanians and would provide accurate information about the present-day situation.

As a member of the Jewish minority in Lithuania, I can attest to the powerful processes of disinformation that have invented the minority “problem.” We who are Jewish in Lithuania do not experience prejudice and discrimination by either the present Lithuanian government or by Sajudis; neither do the majority of Poles and Russians who have chosen to live full and complete lives as citizens of this nation. There is a fear, however, that because we do not have our own border, the stench of prejudice and discrimination in the Soviet Union will begin to pollute our free air.

We in Lithuania welcome the renewal of the long-established Litvak traditions and welcome those who want to continue these traditions of their fathers and forefathers from Lithuania for the development of education and the interests of all humanity. In this regard, the newly established Center for Judaic Studies at Vilnius University can serve as a focus for research and development. It is my hope that the Jewish nation will come to the aid of the Lithuanian nation in achieving its de facto independence and I have every reason to believe that it will do so.

GREGORIUS KANOVICIUS

Member of the Soviet Parliament

Member of Sajudis