Group Maintenance

The Croats in Canada have proved extraordinarily resilient, despite official discouragement, deportation, and negative stereotyping. The motto of Croatian nationalists, “Ja se sječam” (I remember), is, however, reminiscent of other groups’ nationalist aspirations. The centuries-old oral tradition of national independence, buttressed by literary nationalism in the nineteenth century, has been invaluable in the struggle against the monarchy of Yugoslavia and the Communist federal state. The two million Croats in the diaspora were also a powerful force in the recent drive towards independence. Various organizations in Canada have supported humanitarian efforts to assist refugees, notably the Croatian Relief Fund, which dispensed money, food, and clothing in the desperate winter of 1991–92. Similarly, funds from Canadian Croats and others in the diaspora helped arm Croatia for the summer offensive of 1995. Young Croatian Canadians have served in the Croatian war effort.

That is not to minimize the dissent that exists against the new nation-state of Croatia. Disputes have arisen in the collection and distribution of relief, and not all communities have been as enthusiastic in their efforts as groups in Toronto and Mississauga. Whether a refugee movement similar to that from Bosnia will replenish the community is difficult to estimate. Certainly, transatlantic visits will ensure strong cultural links and promote trade. Powerful forces in North America, however, continue to promote assimilation and acculturation.