Published: December 1999
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-48-49.pdf
About This Issue
This double issue of Iskra closes 1999 with deep emotion, national reflection, and hope for renewal. It marks a historic turning point for Croatia — the illness and passing of President Franjo Tuđman, the father of the modern Croatian state. Through tributes, poems, community reports, and heartfelt editorials, the issue captures the grief, gratitude, and uncertainty felt by Croatians worldwide.
Alongside national mourning, the publication celebrates the enduring unity of Croatians abroad, especially in Canada, and looks ahead to the new millennium with faith, optimism, and a reminder of the moral duty to preserve what was built through sacrifice.
Editorial: “Thank You, Mr. President”
Editor Valentina Krčmar opens with a solemn reflection on the death of President Franjo Tuđman, describing him as a complex but great man who shaped Croatia’s destiny.
“He gave us a country. For that, history will remember him — not for his flaws, but for his courage to dream a free Croatia when few believed it possible.”
Krčmar acknowledges that not all agreed with his leadership, yet insists that every Croatian, regardless of politics, owes him respect for realizing a centuries-old dream. She writes of the national mourning that united Croatians from Zagreb to Toronto — church bells ringing, candles flickering, and communities gathering to pray for their homeland’s future.
Motrišta: “After Tuđman — What Next?”
Dr. Davorka Križaj-Kapljić reflects on the uncertainty following Tuđman’s passing, questioning whether Croatia will remain faithful to its founding ideals or fall into the political opportunism that often follows the death of great leaders.
She warns of “wolves in sheep’s clothing” — politicians who once opposed Tuđman but now seek to inherit his legacy. Her message is both cautionary and hopeful:
“The greatest tribute we can give him is to remain dignified, to think with our own minds, and to defend the truth of the Homeland War.”
She urges the diaspora to stay engaged and to continue supporting Croatia’s cultural, spiritual, and moral foundations rather than retreating into apathy.
A Nation in Mourning
Through letters and reports, the issue captures scenes of grief across Croatia and abroad:
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Thousands of candles burning in Zagreb’s Ban Jelačić Square.
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Church memorials held across Canada — in Mississauga, Hamilton, and Toronto — filled with songs, prayers, and tears.
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Flags lowered to half-mast, not just at embassies but at Croatian clubs and private homes.
A poem titled “Tišina ispred groba” (Silence Before the Grave) describes a quiet moment at Tuđman’s resting place, where citizens of all ages stand united — not in fear, but in gratitude.
Reflections on Legacy
Several contributors discuss what Tuđman’s death means for Croatia’s future. They remind readers that independence is not a guarantee but a responsibility, something that must be preserved by honesty, unity, and education.
One author writes:
“Tuđman gave us Croatia, but we must decide what kind of Croatia we will leave to our children.”
The tone throughout is reverent yet realistic — acknowledging both the pride of victory and the work that lies ahead to strengthen democracy and social justice.
Community and Faith
Despite the somber mood, the issue also features Christmas reflections, letters of hope, and photos from Advent celebrations in Croatian parishes across Canada. Krčmar reminds readers that light always returns, even after loss:
“Tuđman’s passing coincides with Christmas — perhaps a sign that from sorrow comes renewal.”
Closing Message
The final pages offer a blend of mourning and optimism. Through faith, tradition, and unity, the Croatian people — at home and abroad — are called to protect the truth of their history and continue building a nation worthy of the sacrifices made.
“Let us not forget who we are, nor the road we took to get here.”
