Kyncl

(submitted by Mary Janes)

Anna Ciernova (1953–) and Karel Kyncl (1949–) were born in Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic). In 2002 they came to Canada to visit Karel’s brother in Glencoe and made the decision to ask for refugee status. Anna was Roma by race and, in their own country, the Kyncls were constantly harassed for their “mixed” marriage. In Canada they saw a chance to live without violence and without racism. This had been a difficult decision as they left behind a son, daughter-in-law, three grandchildren and Karel’s parents, as well as several siblings.

The Kyncls moved to a two-room apartment in Watford in April 2003. Both Karel and Anna had received temporary work permits and relied on carpooling to get to work — Karel in maintenance and construction jobs, Anna at house cleaning in Watford and area. They quickly became self-sufficient. Unfortunately their refugee protection applications were denied in late 2003. They applied immediately for a Humanitarian and Compassionate review of their case. Local residents and church communities were sympathetic to the plea of this intelligent, industrious, friendly couple and raised over $3,800 to cover legal fees, work permit fees and other expenses associated with their applications.

On April 19, 2007, their applications for permanent resident (landed immigrant) status were approved. By this time Karel had received his driver’s licence and had earned enough money to buy a used van. Karel now works full-time in construction, while Anna continues to be self-employed as a house cleaner.

Karel and Anna enjoy the friendliness of the Watford community. On a trip to the Czech Republic in 2007 Anna told family she was anxious to return home. They were surprised to learn that “home” for Anna and Karel was Canada.

Anna and Karel Kyncl, 2007. Courtesy P Janes.

Chapter 24 of 25 - Kyncl Family

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