MART RAUDSAAR ⟩ I was sent away for a long time because I spoke Estonian.

Estonian Editor Reflects on Familiar Disquiet Following Recent Events

Tallinn, Estonia – Recent events have prompted a reflection on historical experiences, particularly concerning the rights and freedoms of the Estonian people. Editor-in-chief of the opinion section, Mart Raudsaar, shared a personal recollection, accompanied by a photograph, that he believes echoes a familiar period. The photograph, taken in the late 1980s, depicts the limited selection of free goods available at Tallinn grocery stores – primarily a small number of canned items.

Raudsaar notes that this situation mirrored a reality experienced during the occupation of Estonia. “It was exactly like that,” Raudsaar writes. “Only a few cans of juice and similar products were offered without charge, and these quantities were insufficient to satisfy hunger.” He further describes instances where communication with store personnel was often limited to the Russian language.

Raudsaar’s account connects this current situation to a specific time in Estonia’s history – the period of occupation. He references his own memories of the 1980s, when individuals were reportedly refused service simply for speaking Estonian within the capital. “This time is back,” he concludes, referencing a return to a situation where linguistic identity was a barrier to basic services.

The photo serves as a visual reminder of this past experience.

Topics: #time #estonian #photo