Published: June 30, 1999
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-37.pdf
About This Issue
Iskra No. 37 reflects a nation standing at a crossroads — between the pursuit of justice for wartime crimes and the daily effort to rebuild and modernize. The issue captures the international aftermath of the Kosovo conflict, the continuing transformation of Croatian society, and the determination of the diaspora to remain connected and active. It features Valentina Krčmar’s introspective editorial, reports on Croatian politics and the Hague Tribunal, cultural insights, community news from Canada, and heartfelt reflections on faith and perseverance.
Motrišta: “Justice and Truth Have No Expiry Date”
In this month’s Motrišta, Valentina Krčmar explores the theme of justice — both political and moral — in the wake of the Hague Tribunal’s expanded investigations into the wars of the 1990s.
She acknowledges the mixed feelings among Croatians: pride that the world is finally recognizing Serbian atrocities, but frustration that many equate aggressor and victim. Krčmar emphasizes that while The Hague may be imperfect, its existence is a step toward accountability.
“Justice delayed is painful,” she writes, “but silence would be far worse. We must remind the world of who began this war — and who defended their homeland.”
Krčmar reflects on her own memories from the early days of the conflict, recalling nights spent writing and organizing appeals from Canada while families in Croatia lived under siege. She warns against complacency, reminding readers that truth must be defended not once, but continuously.
From the Editor’s Desk
Valentina opens with gratitude to contributors who have kept Iskra thriving despite limited resources. She notes the overwhelming reader response to recent issues — especially the letters defending Croatia’s position during the Kosovo War — and thanks those who continue to write, donate, and share stories.
She comments on Croatia’s shifting international reputation, observing that “every new generation of readers must learn that freedom was not given, but earned.” Her editorial tone balances pride with humility, closing with a hopeful wish: “May we all remain worthy of the sacrifices that built our tomorrow.”
News from Croatia
Curated by Valentina Krčmar, the news section captures key political, economic, and cultural developments from late June 1999:
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Hague Tribunal Expands Indictments — Prosecutor Louise Arbour confirms investigations into war crimes in Croatia, Bosnia, and Kosovo. Croatian officials welcome transparency but insist on balanced representation of facts.
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President Franjo Tuđman Addresses Parliament — Reaffirms Croatia’s independence and future integration with European institutions.
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Economic Recovery — Inflation continues to drop, while the tourism sector reports a record-breaking start to the summer season.
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Refugee Repatriation — Over 10,000 displaced Croats have returned to their homes in Eastern Slavonia; government pledges further housing support.
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Education Reform — The Ministry of Education announces a new curriculum emphasizing Croatian history and cultural identity after years of ideological erasure.
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NATO Peacekeeping Missions — Croatian officers join peace efforts in Bosnia under SFOR, marking a milestone in regional cooperation.
Community Life in Canada
“Croatians Abroad — Guardians of Memory”
An inspiring essay highlights the enduring impact of the Croatian diaspora in preserving culture, truth, and national awareness. It profiles community leaders in Toronto, Mississauga, and Hamilton who organize humanitarian drives, folklore performances, and educational programs for younger generations.
AMCA Networking Forum
The Croatian Alumni Association (AMCA) holds a professional networking night in Toronto, bringing together Croatian-Canadian business owners, engineers, and academics. The theme of the evening — “Investing in Heritage” — encourages partnerships that support both Croatian and Canadian communities.
Parish News
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Our Lady Queen of Croats Parish hosts a memorial Mass for victims of the Homeland War.
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Croatian Women’s Association Katarina Zrinska organizes a charity auction benefiting families affected by the Kosovo crisis.
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Mississauga Croatian Credit Union reports record membership growth, underscoring economic confidence among Croatian-Canadians.
Culture and Heritage
Remembering Alojzije Stepinac
An article commemorates Cardinal Stepinac’s steadfast moral courage during the Second World War and his symbolic role in Croatia’s modern spiritual identity. The piece argues that his example of “truth without compromise” remains essential in an age of moral relativism.
Poetry and Art
Poet Ivica Puhalo contributes “Vrijeme i Ruke” (“Time and Hands”), a tender meditation on rebuilding, forgiveness, and faith. The art column features works by Croatian painter Josip Generalic, whose pastoral scenes of Podravina represent “beauty born of endurance.”
Folklore and Tradition
A brief cultural note describes the revival of klapa singing groups in Canada, emphasizing how music continues to serve as both a cultural bridge and emotional lifeline for emigrants.
Health and Family
A practical health article encourages readers to embrace “slow living” — a lifestyle shift toward rest, balanced nutrition, and mindfulness. It includes tips on hydration, walking routines, and how laughter positively affects heart health.
Sports
The sports section celebrates Croatian achievements in the summer of 1999:
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Goran Ivanišević reaches the semifinals in Nottingham, regaining his competitive edge.
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Janica Kostelić, still a teenager, is honored in Zagreb for her continued success in skiing.
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Croatian football clubs prepare for the 1999–2000 European qualifiers, signaling renewed optimism after a difficult season.
Closing Thought
Iskra No. 37 captures a moment of transition — from pain to purpose, from remembrance to rebuilding. Through Valentina Krčmar’s editorial voice and the voices of her contributors, the issue reminds Croatians everywhere that peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of justice, truth, and shared responsibility.
