Become a part of LNAK – Elections in April
When I tell organizations about the new structure of LNAK and invite them to join as members, I have been asked – why should we do it? That is a valid question. It invites us to look at the way we operate today as a society.
The activity among Latvians in Canada takes place mainly in various independently run centres and in other places where there are a number of Latvians and Latvian friends who facilitate it. This successfully brings together people from the local Latvian community and enables them to have contact with each other. But is this enough?
I often hear of isolation and a lack of knowledge of what is happening elsewhere. How can this be overcome?
The other question I hear is – what exactly is LNAK? Before I go on, I’d like to point out, as they do in films and television series, that the following is my personal assessment and I cannot claim that it supports the vision of the entire LNAK leadership circle!
The specific activities of LNAK are described on the website www.lnak.org, however behind that there is a deeper significance. LNAK is not a self-serving organization. It was established to promote and support the activities of Latvians and Latvians at heart in maintaining Latvian identity, no matter where in Canada. Today’s situation is different from LNAK’s early years. Pointing out funding opportunities for projects and events can help to maintain the Latvian identity. Also supporting Latvian school teachers with teaching tools to strengthen pedagogical practice, and by organizing teachers’ conferences.
In the last four years, the LNAK website has become a significant means of communication for Latvian Canadians, thanks in large part to the efforts of Vice-President Ingrīda Zemīte and her team of assistants. For organizations and associations, the opportunity to get to know each other and learn from each other can strengthen and promote the activities of each, just as individuals need to live a social life. Networking makes us stronger. There’s room for everyone under the LNAK “roof”.
While representing a local Latvian community in Canada, the work of LNAK offers wider, valuable connections. Participation in the World Federation of Free Latvians (PBLA), where alongside elected representatives, Laura Smite is our representative in the Cultural Sector, and Agra Asmus- Vāgnere in Education. In the last couple of months, two members of the Executive Committee, myself and Jānis Lielāmers, have been taking part in the 2027-2029 Diaspora Support Planning Group of Latvia. It will provide guidelines for cooperation between Latvian state institutions and the diaspora, including the Latvian Canadan family. Thanks to input from the other members of the Executive Committee, we were able to make strong recommendations for a proposed plan, which will then reflect the particular perspective of Latvian Canadians. No other single group or region would have an opportunity to participate in this process.
The widely read weekly news report by LNAK Executive Committee member Jānis Lielāmers highlights the association’s role in bringing our voices together in Canada to defend our interests and those of our neighbours. This has become particularly important since putin launched the war in Ukraine in 2022. We strive to do everything we can to make our voice and our interests heard in Canada.
In short, the Latvian National Federation in Canada is just that – an organization that aims to unite us. It strives to work for the good of all.
How can you make sure that your voice is heard by LNAK?
The first way to do this is by joining LNAKL, either as an individual or as an organisation or society, using this link – https://lnak.net/lnak-biedriem/#myaccount. I would like to express my appreciation to the Peace Church of Ottawa, which was the first to respond to the offer to renew its affiliation with the LNAK as a member. Thank you for leading the way!
On March 2, the LNAK Executive Committee will review and approve applications from organizations and associations to join or renew their affiliation with LNAK. For a smooth process, we kindly ask you to complete the form organisations by clicking on “organizations” by February 27 if possible. As a reminder, the new statutes allow for both registered organizations and smaller informal groups to join LNAK. We look forward to welcoming you!
We also invite you to consider nominating yourself or a member of your organization for a role on the new LNAK Board, or to participate in an appropriate working group. Descriptions of the activities will be available on this website. Applications are welcome – for the Board, working groups, the Audit Committee, PBLA representatives, and the Annual General Meeting (AGM) organizing committee.
Please return your nomination forms by March 13. They can be found and followed here: https://lnak.net/lnak-valdes-nominacijas-anketa/
The new Statutes also provide for the admission of candidates during the AGM. These candidates will be required to complete the same questionnaire, which will have to be submitted to the Chair by the time indicated on the agenda.
Ghe first elections under the new system will take place at the AGM on April 11. We hope to see you in large numbers! And again, if you have any questions, please contact lnak@lnak.org, specifying to whom you are directing your question.
Rev. Ilze Kuplēna-Ewart
23rd and last President of the LNAK Board.
