H O U S E R E S O L U T I O N
COMMEMORATING LITHUANIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY ON FEBRUARY 16, 2001
WHEREAS, From the days of Mindaugas to modern times, Lithuanians have cherished the freedom that is the common inheritance of all mankind. Thus, on February 16, 1918, when they realized their long-denied dream of independence, the people of Lithuania celebrated the renewal of a centuries-old national tradition and the promise of a future free from foreign domination; and
WHEREAS, Lithuania formed her own government on November 11, 1918, and, despite her peace treaty with communist Russia in 1920, her independence lasted only 22 years. In June 1940, she suffered both invasion by Russian troops and forced annexation to the Soviet Union, survived the horrors of Nazi occupation during World War II and, upon the return of the Red Army, endured a renewed Soviet domination. An armed partisan resistance continued another decade before its final defeat, and eventual adaptation of pacifistic resistance; and
WHEREAS, On March 11, 1990, Lithuania again declared its status of Independence. Another year and a half of subversive and bloody events followed before Lithuanian independence was recognized by all the world's countries. Another two years passed before the last soldier of the occupational army retreated from Lithuanian territory. The reestablishing and recreation of the State had begun. Lithuania has regained its position among European countries; and
WHEREAS, Present day Lithuania is grounded on the principles of an independent democratic Republic, which is administered by an elected Seym and President, and a Government appointed by both branches; and
WHEREAS, The courageous people of the Baltic States have acted with dignity and restraint in the face of grave challenges. As the brave men and women of Lithuania continue to pursue just and noble goals, we reaffirm our support and admiration for the Lithuanian people as we recall the significance of that date today, the 83rd anniversary of Lithuanian Independence; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations hereby commemorates the 83rd Anniversary of the Restoration of Lithuanian Independence on February 16, 2001.