Published: January 31, 2000
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-50.pdf
About This Issue
The 50th issue of Iskra marks both a milestone for the publication and a historic transition for Croatia. With the dawn of the new millennium, the country faces its first major election since the passing of President Franjo Tuđman, ushering in an era of change, hope, and uncertainty. This issue blends the excitement of new beginnings with reflections on legacy — both personal and national — and calls for Croatians to carry forward the values that built their homeland.
Editorial: “The Future Is Ours to Shape”
Editor Valentina Krčmar opens with optimism and resolve. She acknowledges the collective grief that followed Tuđman’s death but emphasizes that the nation must not lose its unity or direction.
“The man who dreamed of a free Croatia is gone, but the dream lives on — in every person who continues to build, protect, and believe in this country.”
Krčmar celebrates Iskra’s 50th issue as proof of the Croatian diaspora’s endurance and commitment, thanking readers for their loyalty and contributors for keeping the publication alive.
She encourages Croatians in Canada and abroad to remain involved — politically, culturally, and socially — in the nation’s next chapter, reminding them that democracy is not built by governments alone, but by people who care.
Motrišta: “The Morning After”
Columnist Dr. Davorka Križaj-Kapljić offers a powerful reflection on the January 2000 elections, which brought a shift in political power after a decade of HDZ leadership.
She writes with empathy for those who voted for change, but warns that change must not mean abandoning national values or rewriting history.
“Croatia chose a new direction, but freedom does not change with a new government. It must remain sacred.”
Her essay stresses the importance of continuity — keeping faith with the ideals of the Homeland War while learning from past mistakes. She urges readers to stay vigilant and united, especially as international influence grows stronger in domestic affairs.
National and Community Highlights
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Elections 2000: The victory of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Croatian Social Liberal Party (HSLS) coalition marks the first major transfer of power since independence. Citizens express hope for more transparency, reform, and stability.
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Post-Tuđman Croatia: Reflections on leadership, media freedom, and the direction of Croatia’s foreign policy dominate headlines.
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Diaspora Engagement: Croatian organizations across Ontario celebrate new cultural programs and scholarships.
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Faith and Family: Parishes hold New Year’s Masses and memorials for the late President Tuđman, blending prayer with patriotism.
Features and Reflections
The issue includes essays and poems on identity, democracy, and the Croatian spirit in transition. One contributor compares Croatia’s political moment to a child taking its first independent steps — filled with both excitement and fear.
Another piece honors the Iskra team and its readers, calling the paper “a bridge between generations and a guardian of memory.”
Closing Message
Valentina ends the issue on a hopeful note, reminding readers that Iskra’s mission remains unchanged — to inform, unite, and inspire Croatians everywhere.
“We have crossed into a new century. May it be one of peace, justice, and truth — for Croatia, and for all who love her.”
