An Estonian cultural centre in Elora is facing backlash following accusations a summer camp offered to kids is secretly honouring Nazis.
Seedrioru holds a monument shaped like a sword bearing the names of Colonel Alfons Rebane, Paul Maitla, Harald Rippalu and Harald Nugiseks with the emblem of the 20th Waffen Grenadier Division of SS also known as the 1st Estonian.
Friends of the Simon Wiesenthal Center says all four were awarded the Nazi Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross, the highest award given to military personnel during the Nazi period.
In the 1950’s during Soviet occupations some Estonians fled the country and came to southern Ontario with property purchased outside Elora to speak their own language and carry traditions.
