Published: April 15, 1999
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-32.pdf
About This Issue
Iskra No. 32 captures a moment of moral outrage and urgency as the war in Kosovo intensifies and NATO continues its air campaign. This issue’s defining feature is the impassioned open letter “Zašto šutite?” (“Why Are You Silent?”), a searing call from a Croatian-Canadian voice demanding that Croats abroad speak up in the media against misinformation and historical distortion. It also covers current affairs in Croatia, community events in Canada, and cultural and health features, blending wartime reflection with diaspora solidarity.
Motrišta: “Zašto šutite?”
This striking essay addresses the Croatian community directly, criticizing its silence in Canadian public discourse while Serbian propaganda dominates the airwaves. The author denounces television and radio commentators for repeating falsehoods about Croatia’s “ethnic cleansing,” recalling the hypocrisy of global powers who ignored Croatian suffering during the Homeland War.
She writes from deep emotion and memory — remembering Vukovar, Ilok, Osijek, and countless Croatian towns that endured atrocities. She pleads for Croats to respond to media lies, to write to stations, and to call in when Serbian voices misrepresent history.
“Where are your voices, Croats? Why don’t you call when the truth is twisted? This is a war for our future — a media war. Speak wherever you can. It is your sacred duty.”
The tone is defiant yet sorrowful, urging unity and moral responsibility among Croatian-Canadians to defend historical truth.
From the Editor’s Desk
Editor Valentina Krčmar opens with reflections on the sorrowful images from Kosovo dominating global news. She condemns Slobodan Milošević’s regime for spreading destruction from Slovenia and Croatia to Bosnia and now Kosovo. Despite diplomatic efforts, she writes, the dictator “has not changed his tactics nor his goal.”
Krčmar highlights how history repeats itself — the same excuses, lies, and delayed reactions from the international community. She ends by thanking readers for their contributions and warns that unsigned or malicious submissions will not be published, underscoring her commitment to integrity in journalism.
News from Croatia
This section includes key national updates compiled by Krčmar:
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U.S. Lifts Croatia’s Arms Embargo — President Bill Clinton authorizes Croatia to purchase U.S. military equipment, citing defense reforms and transparency in the national budget.
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Three Conditions for Partnership for Peace — The U.S. outlines requirements for Croatia’s entry: a new electoral law, extradition of war crimes suspects, and resolution of border tensions with Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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Tensions on the Border — Clashes between Croatian police and international forces near Martin Brod nearly escalated into conflict.
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Spying Allegations in NATO — Reports suggest a possible leak to Belgrade about allied bombing targets.
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Croatian Bishop Duško Gašparović Detained in Yugoslavia — His return to Croatia delayed under claims of military conscription.
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Government Changes — Several ministries merge; new Minister of Tourism Ivan Herak appointed; Dr. Vesna Škare-Ožbolt and Milan Kovač among key government figures.
Community and Diaspora News
Stipe Hrkac Speaks to the Croatian-Canadian Community
Former Toronto resident and current Croatian MP Stipe Hrkac meets with community members in Mississauga. He discusses Croatia’s economic challenges, privatization, and market reform. Hrkac emphasizes that while inflation is under control, “microeconomics remains a disaster” and that Croatia must protect local producers while balancing EU market pressures.
Maja Freundlich Visits Canada
Renowned Croatian journalist Maja Freundlich begins a speaking tour across southern Ontario, hosted by AMCA and Croatian cultural organizations. Events include dinners, lectures, and media appearances in Toronto, Mississauga, and Hamilton, aiming to strengthen ties between Croatian media and the diaspora.
HDZ Toronto Updates
The Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) marks its 10th anniversary. The chapter in Mississauga calls on members to contribute photographs and records for a commemorative book documenting Croatian efforts abroad.
Upcoming Events
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H.O. Međimurje Banquet — May 15, 1999, in Oakville, supporting children of fallen soldiers and a home for disabled youth in Čakovec.
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Community Picnics — June 10 and August 22 at Emerald Lake, Flamborough.
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English Language Classes — Mennonite New Life Centre offers free courses for newcomers with childcare and transportation provided.
Letters to the Editor
Readers react to the previous issue’s article “Stopping Milošević.” Some challenge NATO’s narrative, insisting the turning point in Bosnia came from the Croatian Army’s ground offensive, not airstrikes. Others express concern over depleted uranium weapons and the long-term health effects of modern warfare. The debate reflects a wide range of opinions within the Croatian-Canadian readership — united by anti-Serbian aggression but wary of Western double standards.
Culture and Heritage
Cultural sections include:
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Ivica Puhalo’s Poem “Savjet” (Advice) — A moral reflection encouraging honesty, humility, and conscience: “The Supreme Judge will not ask how many victories you had — but how you played the game.”
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Rare Plants of the Karlovac Region — A nature column by Prof. Vladimir Persin highlighting the endangered Cretna breza (bog birch).
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Tourism 1999 — A feature on revitalizing the island of Susak, exploring its potential as an elite tourist destination.
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Folk Tradition — A photograph of a girl in traditional Susak costume celebrating Croatian heritage.
Sports
The sports section addresses concerns over Croatian clubs’ participation in European competitions amid regional instability. Zlatko Canjuga of NK Croatia (Zagreb) insists that UEFA must not penalize Croatia due to its proximity to the Kosovo conflict. Reports discuss possible venue relocations, airspace restrictions, and unfair perceptions linking Croatia to Balkan unrest.
Health
A wellness column discusses hydration, the benefits of water consumption, and natural approaches to easing arthritis. The tone is practical, offering small lifestyle tips readers can apply easily.
Closing Thought
Iskra No. 32 is both a cry for truth and a call to action. Through passionate appeals and balanced reporting, it captures the Croatian community’s determination to confront lies, preserve memory, and remain visible in global conversations. It is not just a newspaper — it is a defense of voice and conscience during a time when silence could mean surrender.
