Riga, Latvia – Ruta Cibule, a prominent figure in Latvian cultural preservation, received a lifetime achievement award at the “Boņuks 2025” ceremony on March 14th. The annual awards recognize significant contributions to Latgalian culture, and Cibule was honored for her decades-long dedication to safeguarding and promoting the traditions of the Latgale region.
Cibule, described as a guardian of traditional culture, project leader, and cultural historian, learned of the award shortly before her birthday, calling the recognition a particularly special gift. “It was a surprise, on the one hand, and maybe not so much on the other,” she said, adding, “Things that come to others later come to me ten years earlier.”
For 26 years, Cibule worked in the library sector, followed by 20 years leading cultural initiatives in the region. Her work has been instrumental in preserving the intangible cultural heritage of Northern Latgale, including traditional music, folklore, customs, and religious songs. She spearheaded the creation of an exhibit at the Balvi District Museum, titled “Northern Latgale’s Intangible Cultural Heritage,” showcasing these vital traditions.
The “Boņuks” awards, held at the Latgale Embassy “Gors,” also recognized ten other significant events, individuals, and activities that enriched Latgalian culture in 2025. Among the laureates was Ieva Zirniņa, the former head of “Gors,” highlighting the ongoing impact of figures within the cultural landscape. The awards also acknowledged the Latgale Song Festival in Daugavpils.
Six projects from Latvian Public Broadcasting were also nominated for the award, demonstrating the media outlet’s commitment to Latgalian cultural content. Cibule also led the youth folklore camp “Balkani ‘99,” fostering the transmission of traditional songs through authentic means.
“Boņuks puts a duty on me,” Cibule stated, indicating her continued commitment to preserving and promoting Latgalian culture. The award underscores the importance of cultural preservation efforts in Latvia and the dedication of individuals like Cibule to maintaining the region’s unique heritage.
