Estonian, Latvian, Lithuanian Alliance Of Connecticut (ELLA)

Residents of the state of Connecticut of Estonian, Latvian, and Lithuanian descent have a natural interest in the lands of their heritage, collectively known as the Baltic countries. In 1987, the Estonian, Latvian, Lithuanian Alliance of Connecticut ( ELLA ) was formed to alert federal and state officials on issues concerning their respective countries. In particular, ELLA was formed to provide the media with accurate information on Baltic causes. Through these efforts, ELLA promotes a better understanding of the historic Baltic peoples as well as their contemporary problems.

From its inception, ELLA made Baltic independence its primary goal. Black Ribbon Day Commemorations and rallies in Hartford sharpened the general public's awareness of the Baltics' struggle. At the same time, the board of directors of ELLA began a serious lobbying effort in behalf of Baltic independence that centered on the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact signed on 23 August 1939. Consequently, in 1991 when the “January Crisis” occurred and Soviet paratroopers cracked down on the independence movement, ELLA was ready to respond to Soviet disinformation, but, more importantly, able to give precise information about the bloody crackdown in Lithuania and Latvia. ELLA telegrammed the President and wrote members of Congress urging an immediate Soviet withdrawal.

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