The 83rd anniversary of the first deportation organized by Soviet authorities was solemnly commemorated by the Jewish community of Estonia.
At the Jewish cemetery in Rahumäe, Tallinn, a memorial service was held at the monument dedicated to the Jewish victims of the deportation.
Alla Jakobson, Chairperson of the Estonian Jewish Community, opened the ceremony with a poignant reminder of the tragic fate of the 419 Estonian Jews who were deported. She highlighted the inhuman and brutal treatment they endured, which led to the loss of 101 lives.
Jakobson also emphasized that the current rise in global antisemitism and the overall situation in the world are causing renewed anxiety and concern among Jews today.
Council members of the Estonian Jewish Community, Eduard Klas-Glas and Avi Dobrõš, shared personal stories of how the deportations affected their families, adding a deeply personal touch to the commemoration.
Estonian Chief Rabbi Shmuel Kot led a heartfelt memorial prayer. Following Jewish tradition, participants placed small stones on the monument as a sign of respect and remembrance.
