A large proportion of Latvian refugees had been active participants in the social and cultural life of Latvia. This culturally active part of the population had been seriously under threat during the communist regime. Renowned artists, authors, musicians, singers as well as academically educated professors, lawyers, doctors, theologians and representatives of other professions fled Latvia and began living in the DP camps. Cultural, sporting and educational activities grew rapidly.

Already in the first months in the Latvian DP camps schools, theatres and choirs were organised; newspapers issued, books printed, concerts presented, exhibitions and other gatherings held. These cultural activities helped to maintain the feeling of national unity among the refugees. Lutheran and Catholic parishes were established and regular services held in churches and other places of worship. Even song festivals and sport championships were held and a Baltic university created, where people could get academic education.