VILNIUS - It was the season of change - coronavirus,#blacklivesmatter movement and hurricanes. The onset of a number of eventswhich came from left field.
For the international Jewish community there was another event,which was hitting close to home. It was something which hit the heart of everyliving Jew. It was the decision by the Lithuanian government to build a conference centre, on the grounds of a 500-year cemetery. International groups and interfaith leadersrallied in support to protect the cemetery and prevent the construction. TheWhite House expressed its strong opposition to the desecration. Legal experts from across the globe haveverified that the construction constitutes a violation of the Geneva Convention and EU Charter of Human Rights.
As some of the dust settles, one group propels forward in itscampaign to secure the termination of the government’s decision to constructthe conference centre. The organization consists of political practitioners,businessmen and interfaith leaders, all vehemently opposed to the government’s initiative. Theycall themselves “Save Vilna.” These activists are working 24 hours a day to bring a halt tothe Lithuanian government’s ill-conceived plan. They will leave no stoneunturned. Their energy knows no bounds.
Amongst this group, hidden within the layers of determinationthat reverberates amongst every living member, is one soul who will not restuntil the government’s plan is diffused. People who are close to him said thathe is committed to serve the Jewish community. At heart he is Lithuanian inevery sense of the word. He walks the walk and talks the talk with thecherished memories of his ancestors. They are Lithuanians that lived andbreathed Jewish life in Vilnius. He is Reb Dov Fried. This is a man who deeplycares about Lithuanian culture, someone who is committed to preserving thespirit of the country. Mr. Fried could not be reached for comment.
A spokesperson for the group confirmed that the Save Vilnacampaign has expended significant resources in drawing up plans forthe cemeteryin Shnipishok, to beautify the plotof land. Tourist guides say that this piece of real estate could become theJewel of Vilna, a place where Jews internationally come together and pay theirrespects.
One thing is certain, if Reb Dov Fried has his way, Lithuaniawill be better for it.
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Sydney Green
CNB News
content4newsroom@gmail.com
Website: https://www.savevilna.org/blog
