In times of war, history is often written by those in power, while the voices of those who suffer and resist are left to the margins. This collection exists to give voice to those women — ordinary mothers, daughters, and wives — who refused to remain silent. It honours the collective courage of the Canadian-Croatian women who stood together during Croatia’s struggle for independence, ensuring that truth and justice would not be buried beneath politics and propaganda.
Among them was Valentina Krčmar, who, together with Biserka Butković and Ljubica Bukatko, co-founded the Toronto branch of Bedem Ljubavi (“Mothers for Peace”). As its first president, Valentina worked alongside a dedicated group of women who gave their time, energy, and hearts to the cause. Each of them balanced daily work and family life with tireless efforts to advocate for Croatia — writing letters, organizing demonstrations, meeting with officials, and raising humanitarian aid.
Their words and actions became a powerful force. They wrote to the Red Cross, the United Nations, journalists, and politicians, demanding that the world recognize the atrocities taking place in Croatia and Bosnia. Through their letters, they exposed injustice, confronted indifference, and gave voice to those who could not speak for themselves.
This collection of correspondence — carefully preserved and presented by Valentina Krčmar — reflects years of joint effort, sacrifice, and determination. Though many of the letters bear her signature, each one represents the shared conscience of many women who stood united in purpose. When world leaders hesitated, they insisted. When organizations refused to act, they pressed harder.
As you explore these documents, let them serve not as a monument to one individual, but as a testament to a collective legacy — the legacy of Canadian-Croatian women whose steadfast courage helped ensure that the truth of Croatia’s struggle would never be forgotten. Valentina Krčmar was one of those voices, a leader, a chronicler, and a witness, and through her preservation of this work, the voices of all who stood beside her continue to be heard.