International Rroma/Romani Day

54 years ago, on 8 April 1971, the First World Rromani Congress was held. International Rroma/Romani Day, the Rroma Flag and Rroma National Anthem were adopted for the first time. International Rroma Day is an opportunity to celebrate and honour the rich and diverse culture, art, language, and other contributions of all Rroma people such as Sinti, Manuš, Vlax,, Horahane and others belonging to the Rroma community.

It is also a time to highlight the many challenges still faced by Rroma people – the largest ethnic minority in Europe – throughout history to the modern day. Estimates of the European Rroma population range from anywhere between 10-20 million, where 80% of Rroma remain at risk of poverty and deprivation compared an EU average of 17%. Here in the UK, Rroma individuals routinely experience life expectancies of 10-25 years less than the general population, and 76% of Rroma still report hiding their ethnicity for fear of discrimination and prejudice.

This year, a number of events will be planned to celebrate Rroma culture and history at Teesside University. A public lecture will be delivered in June to coincide with Rroma History Month, and a series of documents and guides will be brought together to help promote understanding and dispel common myths.

So kames te ?anes bašo Rroma? – What do you want to know about the Roma?

Please contact Andrew Divers a.divers@tees.ac.uk if you have any questions or would like to know more.

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