Ever since I can remember, Latvian events have always been experienced while wearing a Latvian Traditional Folk dress. The first of such events, my mother remembers, was when I was almost 11 months old for Latvian independence day, 2011. Keeping close to traditions is important, here in Minneapolis, we agree, embracing our culture through language, food, singing, and dancing. I can remember belting, “Dievs Svētī Latviju” and waiting years to enjoy pirāgi being made a door down during Saturday school. We have three dance groups, one for the little kids, one for the juniors, and one for the adults. When you are still in Saturday school, you are automatically in the little kid group, however after graduation, you move up to the juniors group. I joined this group 2 years ago. Professional dresses and costumes are expensive, they are made from linen and wool. Because of this, most dance groups don't have matching regalia for the boys or girls. However three years ago, our group decided that the juniors would get matching costumes. When I joined the group I was elated to get to wear the glamorous blue and green dress. It makes me feel as proud as a lion, that there are so many of us young people who have been passed the torch and come to dance every Friday and are proud to wear our heritage proudly. And a little bit itchy.

– Milija H

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant