Published: February 15, 2002
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-101.pdf
About This Issue
In this passionate issue of Hrvatska Iskra, Valentina Krčmar addresses a matter that struck deeply within the Croatian-Canadian community — Canada’s discriminatory visa process toward Croatian visitors.
Her editorial reads less like commentary and more like a rallying cry, urging unity and collective response from Croatians living in Canada.
Alongside her open letter are major stories on Croatian politics, the trial of Slobodan Milošević, community events, and an interview with President Stjepan Mesić.
The theme that threads through the issue is clear: dignity, representation, and responsibility.
Editorial: “Wake Up, Croatians in Canada!”
Valentina opens her editorial with an urgent tone, confronting what she calls “a quiet injustice.”
She accuses the Canadian government of treating Croatians as suspect citizens of a second-rate nation and demands that Croatian-Canadians recognize the seriousness of the situation.
She cites the troubling visa questionnaire required for Croatian visitors — a form asking soldiers for wartime details such as ID numbers, posting locations, and commanders’ nicknames — calling it “an insult to a sovereign nation and those who defended it.”
“It is not enough that Croatia cooperates with The Hague. It is not enough that we try our own war crimes. Canada now questions our very legitimacy.”
Valentina reminds readers that even Croatia’s appointed consul in Mississauga was denied entry due to this same form.
She laments the absence of an organized lobbying voice in Canada, noting that the Canadian-Croatian Congress has become inactive and that former lobbyists have “been worn down by criticism and exhaustion.”
“There is no one left but you and me. So let us begin.”
Her editorial ends as a direct call to action:
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Write immediately to Citizenship and Immigration Canada protesting the discriminatory form.
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Meet your Members of Parliament in Ottawa and Ontario.
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Demand equal treatment for Croatia and for Croatian guests.
“Enough sleeping! The pot has broken at the well. It is time to act — today, not tomorrow.”
Community and International News
The newsletter covers a wide range of political and cultural updates:
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President Stjepan Mesić reflects on his presidency, foreign policy, and Croatia’s relationship with the diaspora in an extensive interview.
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Reports from HSLS’s 10th Electoral Assembly and commentary on the Milošević trial show an active concern for Croatia’s political standing.
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Coverage of the Winter Olympics, local church celebrations such as Stepinčevo, and parish life in Canada showcase the heartbeat of the community.
Health & Well-Being
A notable feature introduces a groundbreaking medical technique for treating breast cancer — high-frequency thermal therapy.
The article details the successful 15-minute procedure on Zagreb patient Slava Klein, offering hope to women unable to undergo surgery.
Traditional remedies are also included, such as herbal teas of chamomile and linden blossom, reflecting Iskra’s ongoing blend of modern science and folk wisdom.
Culture & Entertainment
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A glowing review celebrates Oliver Dragojević’s concert in the Pula Arena, applauding his unmatched stage presence and musical legacy.
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An article retells the legend of Saint Valentine, connecting the ancient Christian martyr to modern expressions of love and community celebration.
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Croatian societies across Ontario hosted lively Valentine’s Day dances, emphasizing the community’s strong sense of togetherness and pride.
Reader Letters & Tributes
Readers from across Canada respond to Iskra’s 100th issue, expressing admiration for Valentina’s perseverance and gratitude for the publication’s role in connecting Croatians worldwide.
“That path to the hundredth issue was paved more with thorns than with flowers. But precisely because it was difficult, Iskra today stands as the brightest Croatian voice in Canada.” — Stanko Trtanj, Mississauga
Others offer personal congratulations, words of encouragement, and even culinary notes inspired by previous articles — a testament to how deeply the paper is woven into daily life.
Closing Note
Valentina ends the issue on a personal yet determined note:
“We have no one to speak for us — only ourselves. And if we do not act now, no one else will. Canada is our home too, and it must treat us with the same respect we give to it.”
Her words serve as both an editorial and a historical record — a reminder that identity, justice, and unity remain inseparable threads in the Croatian story abroad.
