A Legacy of Resilience: Ardolf Dobobrov and the Fight for Asylum
Deny Dobobrov
Advocate for Roma Rights | Diplomatic Leader in International Relations | Accredited by UN & European Parliament
By Deny Dobobrov, Director of International Relations, World Roma Federation
June 6, 2024 - The story of my father, Ardolf Dobobrov, and his relentless fight for asylum is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Roma people. This article, pieced together from various newspaper archives from 1973 and my father's own journal, chronicles our family's journey from Russia, through Europe, and eventually to Canada, where they sought refuge and a new beginning. I dedicate this article to my father, who passed away in 1994, in loving memory of his courage and resilience.
Fleeing Persecution
Our journey began during the turmoil of the Russian Revolution. My ancestors, like many others, fled the chaos and persecution that followed. They traversed Europe, seeking safety and stability, eventually settling in Yugoslavia. However, the political climate was fraught with danger. In 1962, my father Ardolf Dobobrov fled Yugoslavia to escape persecution.
Ardolf was falsely accused of being a spy for Tito by the Albanian government and endured six harrowing years in prison camps. His resilience saw him escape, only to return to Serbia where he faced similar accusations, this time being labeled a spy for Albania. The continuous cycle of persecution forced my father and his group to leave Yugoslavia in search of safety.
Life in Germany and the Journey to Canada
In Germany, the families lived for five years, striving to build a semblance of normalcy. However, their status as stateless individuals left them in a precarious position, constantly searching for a place to call home. Believing they had secured legitimate West German passports, they embarked on a journey to Canada in search of a better life. Unbeknownst to them, these passports were part of a batch of 300 stolen in 1970.
Arrival and Immediate Challenges in Canada
The group of 45 stateless Yugoslavian gypsies arrived in Canada on April 27, 1973. Soon after their arrival, Canadian immigration authorities discovered the stolen passports and issued deportation orders. The families, including my father, found themselves in a desperate situation, fighting to remain in the country they hoped to call home.
Legal Battles and Advocacy
The newspaper archives reveal a series of legal battles and adjournments. Dennis Kroul, the lawyer representing the group, tirelessly requested more time to prepare their case. The appeal board repeatedly postponed hearings, recognizing the complexity of the situation and the need for adequate representation. The attorneys warned my father that deportation meant returning to Yugoslavia, where he would face severe persecution again.
Financial Struggles
Financial strain was a significant challenge for the group. My father, Ardolf Dobobrov, disclosed that they had spent all their gold coins and jewelry, amounting to $23,000, to survive since their arrival in Canada. They also paid $750 for the stolen passports. Despite these hardships, the group remained hopeful and determined to stay in Canada.
Skills and Aspirations
The group included skilled workers such as machinists, upholsterers, house painters, and seamstresses. They saw Toronto as a city of opportunity, where they could find employment and rebuild their lives. My father's leadership and advocacy were instrumental in presenting their case to the Canadian authorities.
Life in Limbo
Living conditions were challenging for the group. Often, they had to move to camp sites while awaiting the outcomes of their legal battles. The uncertainty of their situation took a toll on everyone involved. Despite this, they remained united and supportive of one another, drawing strength from their shared experiences and common goal.
Advocacy
In his advocacy, my father frequently emphasized the following themes:
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Excerpts from Ardolf Dobobrov's Journal
In his journal, my father documented his life, the struggles of our family, and his hopes for future generations. Here are some poignant excerpts:
"My parents and my oldest brother were born somewhere in Russia. They left during the Bolshevik revolution more correctly in 1919 when the three of them moved to Serbia. This small country suited them since they were Gypsy, orthodox and spoke a similar language. It was the very best they could do at the time so they settled there and the government that was in power allowed them to become citizens of that town."
"I have chosen the language I can write and read and speak because in the Gypsy alphabet, we are missing some letters henceforth I have chosen the Serbo-Croatian language even though the younger generation does not understand this language, someone might find somebody to translate this book. There's no doubt that it will serve the next generation of civilized and schooled gypsies in the world to know something about their ancestors and origin."
"There are Gypsy people who contributed to the world as scientists, engineers, researchers etc... Actions that put other Nations and their culture on the map. The first fact is Gypsy people don't have any land that they could call home and if they did, they would call that land ROMANIA but even that has been taken away from us by the people who cannot call themselves not even by their birthright ROMA."
A Father's Legacy
My father, Ardolf Dobobrov, at 43 years old, stood as a beacon of hope and resilience for the group. As their senior spokesman, he navigated the complex legal landscape with determination and grace. His advocacy extended beyond legal representation; he also ensured that the group's daily needs were met and that their voices were heard.
Reflecting on the Past
As I reflect on the articles from various newspapers and the translation of my father's journal, I am filled with pride and a deep sense of connection to my father's legacy. These documents not only chronicle a pivotal moment in our family's history but also highlight the broader struggles of stateless people seeking refuge and recognition.
A Message of Hope
Today, as I share this story, I am reminded of the enduring spirit of those who fought for a place to call home. My father's journey and the collective struggle of the Yugoslavian gypsies serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, perseverance, and the pursuit of justice. Their story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unyielding desire for a better future.
In commemorating their fight, we honor their legacy and reaffirm our commitment to advocating for the rights and dignity of all people seeking refuge and a place to belong.
Newspaper Articles Referenced:
In Loving Memory of Ardolf Dobobrov (1931 - 1994)