The proposal to rename the Riga Uzvaras Park (Victory Park) to Sunny Park received an unexpected political response. After the collection of signatures for the name change began, Riga's vice-mayor Edward Ratnieks publicly expressed his position.
Bb.lv has already reported that the author of the initiative, Jolanta Stricka, believes that after a major reconstruction, Uzvaras Park has completely changed its purpose. Today, families with children relax here, sporting and cultural events take place, as well as celebrations of the solstice, so in her opinion, the name 'Sunny Park' would better reflect the modern character of this place.
However, Ratnieks urged not to forget the history of the park.
"Let me remind the Latvians once again — history must be known. Uzvaras Park got its name in honor of the victory of the Latvian army over Bermondt's troops in the War of Independence of Latvia," the politician wrote on social media.
He emphasized that this is not just about a name, but about a part of the country's historical memory.
"This is part of our history and the memory of our ancestors. Any new park can be called Sunny Park, but this place I urge to respect and leave alone," the vice-mayor stated.
According to Ratnieks, after the improvement of the area, the park's original meaning was restored, which he believes was lost during the Soviet period. "Thanks to the park's improvement, we have returned its true meaning and given it back to Riga, the Rigan people, and Latvia. Let us cherish it!" he wrote.
The name of the park indeed appeared long before the Soviet era. In 1923, the park was named in honor of the victory of Latvian troops over the army of Pavel Bermondt-Avalov during the War of Independence of Latvia. However, later this place became primarily associated with the Soviet memorial established in 1985. After the restoration of independence, the attitude towards this complex in society remained ambiguous, and in 2022, the monument was dismantled.
In the comments under Ratnieks' publication, many users supported his position. Some believe that instead of renaming, it is necessary to better tell visitors the history of the park. Thus, one commentator suggested installing informational stands and a commemorative sign explaining the origin of the name. Others expressed even stronger opinions. "Those who signed for the renaming should automatically receive invitations for additional history lessons," wrote one user.
There were also suggestions to place informational plaques in several languages at each entrance to the park with a brief historical description of the events for which the park was named.
