Vlasta Chramostová

Vlasta Chramostová (November 17, 1926 – October 6, 2019) was a renowned Czech actress celebrated for her contributions to cinema. Over her prolific career, she graced the screen in 35 films, beginning with her notable role in the 1950 film *The Trap*, which garnered international attention when it was showcased at the 1951 Cannes Film Festival.

Beyond her artistic endeavors, Chramostová was a fervent advocate for human rights and democracy in her homeland. As a signatory of Charter 77—a manifesto demanding respect for human rights in Czechoslovakia—she played a significant role in the social movements of her time. Her activism reached a peak during the Velvet Revolution in November 1989, a pivotal moment that led to the collapse of the Czechoslovak Socialist Republic. At a rally held at the Vinohrady Theatre in Prague, she famously urged the crowd with the powerful words, "If not now, when? If not us, then who?"

Chramostová's legacy extends beyond her film work; she is remembered as a courageous figure who stood up for freedom and justice in a transformative period in Czechoslovak history. Her career and activism left an indelible mark on both the arts and society, inspiring generations to come.