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On August 4, the Consulate General of the Republic of Lithuania in Los Angeles presented the exhibition “From Honorary to General: The History of Lithuanian Consulates in Los Angeles. 1939–2025”. The exhibition introduces the rich legacy of Lithuanian consular representation in Southern California, tracing its development from the establishment of the first Honorary Consulate in 1939 to the present day as well as some aspects of the activities of the local Lithuanian community.

The event brought together leaders and members of the local Lithuanian community, as well as representatives of Lithuanian organizations. In her opening remarks, Consul General Sandra Brikaitė emphasized the vital role of consular work in strengthening Lithuanian statehood, protecting citizens’ rights, and preserving cultural identity abroad. She highlighted the exceptional merits of Honorary Consuls General during the years of Lithuania’s occupation.

“This year, we celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Consulate General in Los Angeles. It was founded on a very strong foundation built during the years of occupation and carried forward after the restoration of independence by Honorary Consuls General Dr. Julius J. Bielskis, Vytautas Čekanauskas, and Daiva Valerija Čekanauskas Navarette. This exhibition is not only a historical retrospective, but also a living testimony to the dedication of Lithuanian diplomats who have worked to unite the community, represent national interests, and build bridges between Lithuania and the United States during the years of Lithuanian occupation and independence”, - said Consul General S. Brikaitė.

The exhibition features a curated selection of archival documents, historical photographs, biographies of Honorary Consuls General, and key events that have shaped Lithuania’s diplomatic representation in Los Angeles since the establishment of the first Honorary Consulate in 1939. It also explores the evolution of consular functions across different historical periods—from the interwar years to the restoration of Lithuanian independence in 1990 and modern era of diplomacy.

The exhibition was developed in collaboration with the Lithuanian Central State Archives and Honorary Consul General Daiva Valerija Čekanauskas Navarrette.

The event also served as a moment of transition for the consular team. Guests and staff bid farewell to Minister Counsellor Mindaugas Čiaglys, who is returning to Lithuania, and welcomed new consular officer Third Secretary Sandra Zolubienė and her family, arriving from Vilnius to join the consulate.

Exhibition Details:

• Dates: August 4–14, 2025
• Visiting Hours: Weekdays, 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Location: Consulate General of the Republic of Lithuania in Los Angeles
• Admission: Free
• Appointments: Please schedule your visit in advance via email at consulate.losangeles@mfa.lt or by phone at (424) 341-870.

The exhibition is also accessible online, offering more details about the activities of Dr. J. J. Bielskis and V. Čekanauskas as Honorary Consuls General can be found in the virtual exhibition prepared by the Central State Archives of Lithuania.