The Commemoration Day of Victims of Genocide Against the Latvian People by the Totalitarian Communist Regime is observed in Latvia every first Sunday of December. This memorial day, initiated by the Eastern Latvian Society and approved by the Latvian government in 1998, honors the victims of mass repressions that began in 1937, leading to an ethnic cleansing that lasted until 1938. During this period, an estimated 20,000 to 70,000 Latvians in Russia were killed, and at least 22,000 were arrested in Latvia, with over 70% of those shot. The day serves as a remembrance of the atrocities committed against the Latvian people under the Communist regime. Activities typically include memorial services and educational events to reflect on this tragic chapter in Latvian history.