The Story of Baltic Displaced Persons, 1944-1952

On exhibit at Central Library, March 7 – April 17, 2017.

Exhibit reception: Tuesday, March 7, 6 – 7:30 p.m. at Central Library.

This spring, Central Library will host an exhibit documenting the crisis in the Baltic countries in the aftermath of World War II.

Civilians fleeing battle fronts, fearing persecution, and families seeking safety in neighboring countries — an all too familiar story. “No Home To Go To” is the story of people living in refugee camps and finding a home in a new land, as told through their memories, documents, photographs, and memorabilia.

According to Library Director Diane Kresh: “The show contributes to a clearer understanding of the World War II experiences while drawing incisive lessons for the current refugee crisis.”

The artifacts examine various aspects of camp life — from the way refugees managed their schools and churches, organized sports and cultural events, to their struggles to find space, food and clothing. The exhibition also reveals their resistance to the attempted repatriation by Soviet authorities, their attempts to train for a new life, and their determination to face bureaucratic and legal obstacles to find a new home.

 

This project has been brought to you by the Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture, in collaboration with several institutions in the U.S. and abroad.  To find out more about the exhibition, visit Displacedpersons.org.