New Witness Project Episode: Albanian Pianist Perseveres Despite Communist Oppression

The Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation (VOC) highlights the tragic and powerful stories of victims of communism, past and present, through our award-winning short video series, the Witness Project. We are proud to present the newest episode of the Witness Project, featuring Albanian concert pianist Dr. Elida Dakoli.

As a child in communist Albania in the 1970s and 1980s, Elida Dakoli was persecuted due to her family’s pro-democracy ties. Both sides of her family were targeted because of their opposition to the brutal communist Enver Hoxha regime. When her passion for music started at age six, her parents were determined to not let the communist oppression of their family smother Elida’s independent spirit. Against all odds Elida’s natural talent and her resolve to master the piano enabled her to triumph over the totalitarian regime’s repression. Today, Elida is a renowned classical pianist whose career has flourished worldwide.

We invite you to view Elida’s story using the link below, and encourage you to share the powerful story of her family’s multi-generational fight against communism.