Examining the Representation of Intellectual Disability during the Soviet times and after Regaining Independence in Latvia: A Case Study of Children's Care Home No. 2, Baldone

Over the decades, media and cultural narratives have significantly influenced political discourses, often depicting idealized representations of individuals with attractive characteristics to further the aims and ideals of socialism. Scholars in disability studies focusing on the Eastern European context have observed that during the Soviet era, individuals with disabilities in visual arts and media were frequently portrayed through specific narratives that emphasized themes of heroism, pity, and care. This portrayal was profoundly shaped by Soviet ideology, underpinning social myths that prioritized physical well-being and productivity as fundamental preconditions for societal participation. Individuals who did not conform to these standards faced disqualification and discrimination, leading to their exclusion from visual culture and media. This paper seeks to investigate the representation and perception of children with intellectual disabilities in Latvia, tracing the evolution from the Soviet era to contemporary times. It will provide a comprehensive overview of the history of Children’s Care Home No. 2 in Baldone. Furthermore, this article will analyze the representation of the institution and the depiction of children with intellectual disabilities in printed media from the establishment of the institution in 1969 until its closure in 2019. A thorough examination of all media references pertaining to the institution will be conducted to illuminate the ideological narratives that have emerged and transformed over the decades.