On April 1, 2020, we will mark the 60th anniversary of the Estonian House in Toronto. We had hoped to celebrate this milestone with you, but we are now unable to come together because of the Covid-19 crisis. Right now, staying home is the best way to protect our community.
Staying home runs counter to the very purpose of the Eesti Maja. For sixty-years it has operated as place to sustain our community in Toronto. A home-away from home. There is not a single person who has grown up in our community who has not spoken of their deep connection to this place. A connection built through community, service, and education.
While our doors opened on April 4, 1960, they will be closed on April 4, 2020. The next several months will test the strength of our community, our nation, and each of us.
During this difficult time, it is important to remember that the deep commitment to the Estonian House over the years, to building a thriving community by its founders was forged in a time of crisis. Our founders knew what it was like to be isolated. They knew what it was like to be unsure of what the future held. They knew loss. They also knew hope.
“Me kestame üle aja.” We will last through the ages. These were the words of hope, written by Estonian poet Henrik Visnapuu, engraved into the Toronto Estonian House in 1963.
We hope that if there is something positive that can come from this crisis, it will be that our community is renewed. That when it is safe to do so again, that we will come together again, to celebrate, to learn, and to share in each others company.
We have plans for the 60th anniversary celebration and will share those with you when the time is right. We look forward to seeing you at the Estonian House.
The Board of the Estonian House