About Roma

Roma are Europe's largest ethnic minority, an estimated 10-12 million Roma people. But they continue to be one of its most misunderstood and marginalised communities shown here ( https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/combatting-discrimination/roma-eu/roma-equality-inclusion-and-participation-eu_en). In Scotland, around 20,000 Roma and Travellers live and contribute to society, with communities particularly visible in places like Govanhill, Glasgow.

Our past generations began their westward travels from northern India over a thousand years ago. Modern research using language and genetic evidence confirms this long journey, with Roma arriving in Europe in the 14th century. This article confirms that the Roma came from India to Europe 1,500 years ago.  https://www.theguardian.com/world/2012/dec/07/gypsies-arrived-europe-1500-genetic

Language is an essential aspect of cultural connections. The Romani language is divided into more than 60 dialects that are spoken by Roma communities worldwide. It is part of the Indo-Aryan language family and has roots in Sanskrit and Hindi. This link discusses this information, https://www.gypsy-traveller.org/romani-dialects/ and it also shows some basic phrases. 

Roma history is also highlighted by centuries of exclusion and violence. From the 500 years of slavery endured by Roma in Romanian nations, discussed here (https://www.europeana.eu/en/stories/roma-slavery-in-romania-a-history) to the persecution of the Holocaust, in which at least 500,000 Roma were murdered in what we remember as the Porajmos, our people have frequently been erased from official histories. This is discussed in this link, and it also talks about the continued discrimination Roma faced even after World War 2.  https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/genocide-of-european-roma-gypsies-1939-1945 

But we still live, we still talk, we still celebrate. International Roma Day, a worldwide day of pride, remembrance, and solidarity, is recognised by Roma communities on April 8th, discussed here, https://www.coe.int/en/web/sarajevo/-/international-roma-day-2025-celebrating-culture-and-advancing-equality . We fly the Roma flag on this day, which was first adopted at the World Romani Congress in London in 1971. It has a red 16-spoke chakra that symbolises movement and freedom, as well as blue and green for the sky and land. "Gelem, Gelem," our anthem, speaks a story of our challenges and strength. 

Today, activists, artists, educators, and organisations led by Roma are advancing opportunity and justice. With a €100 million commitment to help Roma communities through employment, education, and inclusion programs, the Roma Foundation for Europe was established in 2023. https://apnews.com/article/open-society-foundations-george-soros-roma-8d20aafbb11a5e98a559e5362caa0424