ASTA BANIONYTE, WASHINGTON, DC
Lithuania recently celebrated its tenth anniversary of regained freedom-the restoration of its independence. Yet, its continued independence is at growing risk because democracy is not taking root in its neighbors to the East. The deepening dictatorship in Belarus and the growing imperialistic attitudes in Russia where 50 percent of the high school students endorse the return of a Czarist Empire with all of its previous territories, raises serious concerns whether Lithuania can remain a democratic, free and independent state well into this new century. The members of this next national council of the LAC, Inc. will face many difficult questions including whether we can in any serious way impact Lithuania's destiny, and if we can what is the most effective way to help Lithuania maintain its independence. I believe that my training and my experience can help in that effort to find sound solutions to practical issues.
I'm also concerned that too few members of my post-war generation participate in the organization both at the local and national level. It is to the credit of families with children that they are the backbone of many of our activities, but they should not be bearing this organizational burden alone. The LAC, Inc. needs to develop a sound financial base if it is to survive as an effective organization capable of mounting national projects. Otherwise we can expect that the chapters will fade away or isolate themselves into local social clubs. In 1939, Lithuanian-Americans were unprepared to help Lithuania defend its independence, will we allow history to repeat itself?
I invite Lithuanian-Americans who share my concerns to vote for me in the current elections for delegates to the national council of the Lithuanian-American Community, Inc. I pledge to you my best efforts and hope not to disappoint you. I will seek out your opinions, concerns and counsel.