Published: May 31, 2001
View Original Newsletter: Iskra-83-84.pdf
About This Issue
This special double issue of Iskra celebrates Croatia’s Statehood Day (Dan Državnosti) with heartfelt reflection, community pride, and an unshakable sense of gratitude. Editor Valentina Krčmar dedicates nearly the entire feature section to the meaning of this national holiday—its origins, sacrifices, and emotional resonance for Croatians in Canada and abroad.
It’s also a deeply personal issue for Valentina: her letter to readers notes that she’s preparing to travel to Croatia for a long-awaited rest and to rethink the future of Hrvatska Iskra, which has struggled financially despite its loyal readership. Yet, even amid uncertainty, the tone remains hopeful and proud — a tribute to the endurance of the Croatian spirit.
Editorial Letter: “Until We Meet Again”
Valentina opens with a warm note to readers, explaining that this double issue was prepared before her summer trip to Croatia. She candidly discusses the challenges of running Iskra with minimal financial support but thanks her contributors and readers for their loyalty and encouragement.
She also reflects on the upcoming Statehood Day and highlights how the issue includes updates on local elections in Croatia, community festivals, and the 50th anniversary of the Queen of Peace Parish in Toronto.
Her closing words are full of sincerity:
“To all readers — write to us, criticize, praise, share your thoughts. Our pages are open to you.”
Motrišta Column: “Our Shared Celebration of Statehood”
Valentina’s column, Motrišta, is a heartfelt meditation on Croatia’s Statehood Day (May 30). She traces the meaning of the date back to 1990, when Croatia held its first democratic elections and when the Croatian people greeted President Franjo Tuđman and Cardinal Franjo Kuharić at the first official Statehood celebration.
“That day, 30 May 1990, the Croatian people greeted the dawn of our own statehood after generations of silence.”
Valentina connects the holiday to the Croatian-Canadian experience, recalling the 27th Folklore Festival, the Carassauga multicultural event, and the 50th anniversary celebration of the Queen of Peace Parish in Toronto.
She honors the generations who built the community from scratch — grandparents who arrived in Canada with little more than faith, mothers who sewed costumes, and priests who kept the language and spirit alive.
“When we sing Croatian songs today, we seldom think of how much effort went into preserving this freedom when even speaking Croatian was once forbidden.”
She calls on readers to celebrate with gratitude and pride:
“Celebrate this day as solemnly as you can — for those who gave their lives for it. Let every song, every dance, every prayer be for Croatia.”
National & International Highlights
The issue also features a collection of domestic and world news:
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Local Elections: Reports on recent municipal elections across Croatia.
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Economy: The Croatian National Bank defends the kuna amid financial uncertainty.
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Tourism: Dubrovnik welcomes one of the world’s fastest cruise ships; Istria debates regional autonomy.
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Balkan Politics: Caution is urged in dealings with Belgrade; indictments are filed against Croat politicians in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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Media Reform in BiH: Coverage of ongoing struggles to ensure fair reporting.
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Srebrenica: A haunting piece titled “A Cry from the Grave” reminds readers that justice and remembrance must never fade.
Feature Story: “Srebrenica – A Cry from the Grave”
A detailed account revisits the 1995 Srebrenica massacre, emphasizing the human cost and the international community’s failure to prevent genocide. The article calls for renewed attention to justice and for continued solidarity with Bosnian Croats and Muslims affected by the war.
“Silence is the most dangerous accomplice of evil.”
Culture and Community
The issue celebrates art, culture, and community involvement:
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Ilija Vranešić, a Toronto-based Croatian painter, receives an award for his pastel work at the Etobicoke Art Group exhibition.
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Dora Golf Tournament: The 9th annual fundraiser supports children orphaned during the Croatian War of Independence.
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AMCA Tennis Tournament: Promoting camaraderie and wellness within the diaspora.
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Church Events: The Queen of Peace Parish marks its golden jubilee with joy and reverence.
Valentina’s article on the Dora charity golf event captures the spirit of giving:
“The greatest prize was not the trophy, but knowing that 25 children in Croatia would be cared for this year thanks to the generosity of our community.”
Health Column: “Exercise for a Better Life”
Dr. Ivo Belan contributes a detailed guide on the physical and emotional benefits of regular exercise. From walking and swimming to yoga and cycling, he emphasizes that movement is a form of self-care accessible to all ages.
“For many, exercise is not punishment but liberation — the body’s way of thanking the soul.”
Literature Feature: “The Balcony” by Pavao Pavličić
A reflective essay explores the symbolic power of the balcony — a space between the private and public, between love declarations and political speeches. It’s both a metaphor for Croatia’s new identity and a quiet homage to ordinary beauty.
“The balcony connects the house with the world — love, politics, and beauty all live there.”
Closing Words: “So I Believe”
Valentina closes the issue with gratitude and conviction:
“Celebrate Statehood Day as best you can. Celebrate it for those who are gone and for those who continue to keep our Croatian spirit alive.”
She signs off simply:
“That’s how I see it.”
