Pavel Latushka at the "TUTAKA" Festival
"A person lives while they dream. I think all the Belarusians who still dream have gathered here today. Our main dream is to regain Belarus. I truly dream of returning home. But dreaming alone is not enough. We must act! Every single day!" said Pavel Latushka, deputy head of the United Transitional Cabinet and head of the National Anti-Crisis Management, during his opening remarks at the "TUTAKA" festival in Padlassie.
From July 12-14, near Bialystok and right on the border between Poland and Belarus, the "TUTAKA" cultural festival took place, traditionally bringing together Belarusians from all around Europe and representing the best and brightest of today's independent Belarusian culture all in one place. The festival not only showcased the richness and diversity of modern Belarusian art, music and performance, but also served as an important gathering for all those working to preserve and develop the culture despite forced emigration.
"I'm thrilled to see the Belarusian minority in Poland and members of the Belarusian diaspora here today too. Unfortunately, this diaspora exists because we were deported from our homeland, but it's so important we stick together. United we are strong," said Pavel Latushka, addressing the festival participants.
The festival was a true celebration for anyone who appreciates and supports Belarusian traditions, arts and music. Over three days, guests were treated to a diverse lineup including concerts by popular Belarusian musicians, theatrical productions, literary readings, and exhibitions featuring works by contemporary Belarusian artists.
In addition to entertainment, discussion panels were a key part of the festival's program. Pavel Latushka took part in a talk titled "Elections in Belarus 2025: What Happens Next?" which explored strategies around the 2025 election campaign in Belarus. Together with President-elect Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Pavel Latushka also met privately with ambassadors and representatives from Poland, France, Sweden, Canada, the Netherlands, the USA, Latvia and more who actively support Belarusians, as well as leaders from the Padlassie Voivodeship. They discussed new ways Belarus' international partners can further aid the Belarusian people and increase pressure on the regime.
Festivals like "TUTAKA," along with the thriving Belarusian diaspora community and flourishing culture, are truly inspiring. Latushka closed his remarks declaring: "Unfortunately, the Russian horde currently dominates our homeland. Unfortunately, a terrible regime still grips our motherland. But this horror will disappear. It will not vanish on its own. It will only disappear when we stand united and resolute. We cannot give up. We must keep believing, dreaming, living. Because our beloved Belarus will live on! Long live Belarus!"
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