On the Day of the Restoration of the Independence of the Republic of Latvia, establishing the White Tablecloth Celebration tradition, the Saeima paid tribute to the members of the Supreme Council who on 4 May 1990 adopted the Declaration on the Restoration of Independence.

“On 4 May 26 years ago you, the elected representatives of the people, fulfilled the people’s will. You brought to life the dream of the rebirth of an independent Latvia,” Ināra Mūrniece, the Speaker of the Saeima, said, paying tribute to the members of the Supreme Council who voted for the restoration of independence.

“Just like people throughout Latvia, you also held your breath as the votes were counted one by one. You stepped up to the rostrum, inspired, persuaded, explained and in the end – you gained a convincing majority,” Speaker Mūrniece said, expressing her gratitude for the hidstoric vote that changed the course of history and restored the independence of our state. 

The Speaker of the Saeima emphasised that it is a great honour to hold the first White Tablecloth Celebration here at the Saeima together with the members of the Supreme Council. 

“4 May, the Day of Restoration of Independence of the Republic of Latvia, is a day of joy, happiness, pride and strength for us – the members of the Supreme Council who voted for the declaration on independence. It is a day of celebration for all good people, for practically the whole population, regardless of their ethinicity. Everyone was with us, and we were with everyone. This link still exists today,” Juris Karlsons, President of the 4 May Declaration Club, said.

The White Tablecloth Celebration is aimed at establishing and reinforcing the tradition of people gathering on 4 May at the table with family, friends, neighbours or within their community to celebrate their state and honour its founders and protectors. This celebration reminds us that the regaining of Latvia’s independence – its rebirth – is a result of people’s relentless struggle, courage and daring.

The White Tablecloth Celebration is a part of Latvia’s centennial programme and is marked throughout Latvia already this year.

Saeima Press Service