Book on Croatian Immigrants in Mexico in the Works

The Croatian-Mexican Association (Asociación Croata Mexicana – ACM) is preparing two projects aimed at preserving the history and heritage of the Croatian diaspora in Mexico: a book documenting Croatian immigrant families and an exhibition showcasing Croatian inventions and scientific contributions.

"We are working on a book about the Croatian families who came to Mexico and helped establish today's community," Constanza Gabelic, who is coordinating the book project, told Hina.

According to Gabelic, a database of Croatian families has already been compiled, although the project has not yet been officially presented to the public. Its launch is expected in the coming months. The association currently estimates that around 800 families of Croatian descent live in Mexico, although the exact number remains unknown.

"We hope this project will help us establish a more accurate figure," Gabelic said.

Book to Build on Earlier Exhibition

The book, titled *Family Stories of Croatian Emigrants to Mexico: The Ordinary Lives of Extraordinary People*, will build on an exhibition held in October 2024, which explored the stories of Croatian families who began settling in Mexico in the 19th century, most of them from Dalmatia.

The new publication will introduce additional families, accompanied by photographs and historical documents, preserving the stories of those who helped build lasting ties between the two countries.

Another Project in the Pipeline

The association is also preparing a second project: an exhibition titled *Innovative Croatia: Inventions That Change the World*, scheduled to take place in Mexico City in December and January.

"What do a tie worn at weddings, a fingerprint used to unlock a mobile phone and alternating current that powers our homes have in common?" reads the exhibition announcement.

According to Marcela Guardia, who is coordinating the project, all three are connected to Croatian history and contributions that remain relatively unfamiliar to international audiences.

Through historical and contemporary examples, the exhibition will highlight Croatian creativity, scientific achievements and technological innovations. Its aim is to introduce Mexico's public to Croatia beyond its well-known image as a tourist destination.

A Growing Croatian Community in Mexico

The Croatian-Mexican Association was founded in 1997, initially bringing together descendants of Croatian immigrants through the honorary consulate.

Since 2024, it has expanded its activities by launching a website and social media profiles, making it easier for Croatians, their descendants and others interested in Croatia to connect.

In October of that year, the association organised an exhibition on the history of Croatian families in Mexico, bringing together members of the community from different parts of the country. The event coincided with the Croatian folk ensemble LADO's first visit to Mexico and was attended by Croatia's Ambassador to Mexico and the United States, Pjer Šimunović.

Today, the association shares information about educational opportunities, scholarships, Croatian language courses, cultural events and international cooperation. It also maintains links with Croatian communities in other Latin American countries and the United States, as well as Latin American associations in Croatia.

Its broader ambition is to make the Croatian community in Mexico a more active part of the global Croatian diaspora, not only by preserving its heritage but also by launching projects and creating new cultural, educational and professional ties with Croatia.