28-03-2025

Yellow Ribbon Run in prisons

On April 1–2, the Yellow Ribbon Run will take place in prisons across Lithuania, aiming to raise public awareness about the challenges faced by inmates, highlight the importance of reintegration, and reduce negative stereotypes and stigmas. The event also seeks to strengthen social connections between inmates, their families, prison and probation staff, volunteers, and non-governmental organizations.

This unique initiative, which this year emphasizes the role of volunteering, will be held in five correctional facilities: Pravieniškės Prison No 1, Kaunas Prison, Marijampolė Prison, Alytus Prison and Panevėžys Prison. The run will bring together inmates, officers, prison staff, social partners, and volunteers. Additionally, guests from the Norwegian correctional system, who will be visiting Lithuania at the same time, are expected to participate in the event at Pravieniškės Prison. Over the two days, several hundred running enthusiasts and supporters are expected to take part.

It is worth noting that last October, at the initiative of the Lithuanian Prison Service, the Yellow Ribbon event was organized for the first time in Kaišiadorys. The event received strong international support and was open to the public. Encouraged by this success, another public Yellow Ribbon Run is planned for late summer this year.

The Yellow Ribbon Project was launched in Singapore in 2004. It aims to promote community, understanding and mutual support, contributing to a more open and welcoming society.

The Yellow Ribbon Run was inspired by the popular song of the 70s “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Old Oak Tree” by Tony Orlando, based on a true story published in The New York Post in 1971.