Helena Jaklitsch honored the 120th anniversary of the association that preserves the Slovenian word in Croatia

Dr. Helena Jaklitsch, the State Secretary at the Office of the Government of the Republic of Slovenia for Slovenians Abroad and in Diaspora, returned to Slovenia after an intensive visit to Slovenian communities in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. She described the trip as professionally demanding, stretching from early morning until late evening each day. Contrary to expectations of exhaustion, Jaklitsch stated she felt increasingly energetic, satisfied, and refreshed with every meeting. This sensation persisted even after her return home. She attributed this feeling to the dedication displayed by Slovenians living under the Southern Cross who maintain their loyalty to the Slovenian world and Christian faith. Jaklitsch noted that maintaining Slovenian identity as a precious family heritage over eighty years or more requires immense effort, care, sacrifice, and renunciation. She observed that children and youth attend Slovenian schools on Saturdays, adding a sixth day of education after five days of attending local schools in Argentina. She argued that such persistence would fail if driven solely by mechanical obligation or duty without positive emotional attachment. Instead, she found the Slovenian world there permeated by love and fidelity. Even in communities where proficiency in the language has declined to the point where communication in the tongue of historical figures like Trubar, Preseren, Slomsek, Rebul, or Simcic is difficult, thoughts of the ancestral homeland still move speakers to tears and tremble voices. Acknowledging potential criticism regarding bias, Jaklitsch admitted she has many friends and acquaintances within the Argentine community and holds patriotism high among her values. She recognized diverse experiences and occasional disagreements within the community regarding future directions. However, she maintained that the hearts of these compatriots, including younger generations, still beat in a Slovenian rhythm. When speaking with young people who remain active in the community, they expressed a desire to preserve what they received from their parents and grandparents. They explicitly stated their intention to pass these values on to their own children. These residents often mention with pride that almost every Argentine knows a Slovenian. They believe thousands of Slovenians live in Argentina, citing their success and visibility. Locals regard them as diligent, hardworking, honest, and reliable traits that Jaklitsch linked to descriptions written by Valvasor and other foreigners who knew the Slovenian character well. Jaklitsch questioned how she could feel tired after encountering such devotion to the homeland, the Slovenian word, poetry, and prayer. She mentioned that members of the Sasa Avsenik ensemble, who visited Buenos Aires recently, likely shared similar feelings of revitalization. Her recent activities also included celebrating the 120th anniversary of the Slovenian Educational Society Srce in Dobrla Vas, Austria. The society was established in 1906 and has shaped cultural and social life in the region despite historical challenges, including bans on operations and pressure due to national affiliation. The celebration, titled "Good Evening, Neighbor," took place in the Cultural House in Dobrla Vas. Representatives of the Slovenian national community, local authorities, and cultural organizations attended. Jaklitsch emphasized that the society's history represents a story of perseverance, courage, and love for the Slovenian language and culture. She highlighted the importance of involving children and youth in singing, theater, and other activities to ensure the language remains a living force for the future rather than just a past inheritance. On behalf of the government office, she presented an award and expression of gratitude for the society's contribution to preserving national identity. The cultural program featured performances by the Youth Choir Sweethearts, the Church Singing Choir of Dobrla Vas, the Mixed Singing Choir Srce, and the wind band Marktkapelle Eberndorf-Kuehnsdorf. Stefan Kramer, honorary president of the society who led it for 25 years, delivered the main speech outlining its 120-year history. Other speakers included society president Gitti Neuwersch and Mayor Wolfgang Stefitz. Ambassador Marko Stucin read a letter from President Nataša Pirc Musar addressed to the society. The organization honored Mayor Stefitz, Deputy Mayor Friedrich Wintschnig, and Nada Kramer for their decision to implement visible bilingualism in the municipality. Other organizations also sent congratulations and awards to recognize the society's long-term cultural work.