CULTURE
Slovenian Inmates in Jasenovac, A Book of Names and Faces: A work restoring the dignity of tortured souls
On 9 November 2023, the Slovenian Emigrant Association hosted a high-profile book launch of Slovenian Inmates in Jasenovac, A Book of Names and Faces by Slavko Alojz Kramar. The Slovenian Emigrant Association organized the event in cooperation with the Slovenian Association for International Relations, Slovenian Home in Zagreb, and the City Council of Slovenian National Minority of Zagreb. The event was financially supported by the Government Office for Slovenians Abroad. In her interview for Rodna gruda, journalist, publicist and editor of the book Ilinka Todorovski talked about the extensive writing process, revealed how the stories of the inmates touched both the author and her, and discussed the plans for further research on the matter.
GENERATIONS
Fernando Enrique Dupuy: Being Slovenian is not about bloodline or documents
Dupuy was born in the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area in Argentina, particularly in the partido of Tres de Febrero. His father was of Creole descent and his mother of Slovenian ancestry. Dupuy currently lives in Buenos Aires, where carries out research on transgenerational trauma therapy. In his interview for Rodna gruda, he meditates on how beginning to uncover his Slovenian roots has led him to a long-sought treasure.
SLOVENIANS IN BUSINESS
Barbara Vuga, “Writing a book is not enough if the book remains on your bookshelf.”
“23 years ago, I saw Mexico as a very large, unpredictable, challenging and generous country. And I still see it that way today. Monotony in its true sense is an unknown concept around here. Throughout the years, I have made many friends who make me feel I at home. I have a few exceptional neighbors with whom I indulge in different activities and share various responsibilities in our community. We do everything with voluntary work, which only strengthens our friendship,” says Barbara Vuga when recounting her first impressions and life in Mexico. And while Mexico has become her second home, she never truly disconnected from her homeland. Is is a translator and a book dealer, presenting Slovenian authors across Mexico. Recently, she published her own children’s book in the Slovenian language and she has also become a correspondent for Rodna gruda.
SLOVENIAN WONDERS
From the underground of Postojna to the Adriatic Sea
The Littoral-Inner Carniola statistical region is classified as a mid-sized, yet it contributed the smallest population share of all Slovenian regions in 2021 – only 2.5%. It also has the lowest population density in the country. Its most frequented attractions are Karstic cave systems, along with the world-famous Postojna Cave, and the Cerknica Lake. In this issue of Rodna gruda, we will delve into the western, Littoral part of the region.
SLOVENIAN LANDSCAPE
November: From heated politics to athletic triumphs
The fall typically serves us with above-average temperatures, and this year is no exception. But not only in nature – things have not been this hot in our politics for quite some time, and the parties are already preparing for the European elections that will take place next year. Once again, we can thank our athletes for bringing the festive spirit before the start of December. Our football team qualified for the 2024 European Championship, and our boxer Ema Kozin claimed the title of WBC and WBO super welterweight world champion.
