Breaking Down Barriers: Celebrating Romani Pride and Combating Prejudice
- Global Roma Commemoration: Urge for Action to Combat Discrimination
Here's to understanding, unity, and breaking down barriers on April 8 - International Romani Day! This day commemorates the first World Romani Congress held in London back in 1971, a pivotal moment in the global fight for the civil rights of Romani people.
Mehmet Daimagüler, a renowned advocate, emphasized the ongoing need for action against discriminatory attitudes towards Romani communities. He lauded the resilience of Sinti and Roma individuals in Germany who have tirelessly fought against anti-Romani sentiment since post-war times, achieving remarkable political victories in building up their community.
The Federal Government has allocated attention to this issue, creating the position of Anti-Romani Sentiment Commissioner in 2022, located within the Federal Ministry of Family Affairs. This Commissioner serves as a liaison for Sinti and Roma concerns within the Federal Government and coordinates efforts against anti-Romani sentiment alongside the relevant ministries.
Sadly, Sinti and Roma communities in Germany continue to face deeply-rooted prejudices from a significant portion of the majority population, as well as increasing hostility and far-right radicalization. The website of the Federal Ministry of Family Affairs echoes these concerns.
- Romani
- Mehmet Daimagüler
- Prejudice
- Federal Government
- Sinti and Roma
- Germany
- International Romani Day
- London
- Anti-Romani Sentiment Commissioner
- Far-right scene
Insights:
- The German Federal Government has initiated several measures to combat anti-Romani sentiment and foster the Sinti and Roma community. Among these steps are the creation of the Independent Antigypsyism Commission in 2019, the adoption of the National Action Plan Against Racism in 2017, and alignment with the EU Roma Strategic Framework for 2020-2030[2][3].
- The government is actively monitoring and researching racism, including anti-Romani sentiment, through organizations such as the German National Monitoring of Discrimination and Racism (NaDiRa)[2]. Additionally, policy changes and legislative amendments aimed at eradicating racism and discrimination are underway, potentially including revisions to the Basic Law[3].
Engaging the Community:
- Grab a mate, join the movement, and mark International Romani Day as a reminder to break down barriers and stand united against prejudice.
- Join a local event or organize one yourself to show solidarity with the Sinti and Roma communities in Germany and worldwide.
Don't shy away from making a difference. Let's celebrate Romani pride, challenge prejudice, and create a more inclusive world together. Happy International Romani Day! 💛💛💛
- Mehmet Daimagüler, a prominent advocate, has commended the resilience of the Sinti and Roma community in Germany, who have been actively fighting against discrimination since post-war times.
- The German Federal Government, in response to ongoing prejudices faced by Sinti and Roma communities, has appointed an Anti-Romani Sentiment Commissioner within the Federal Ministry of Family Affairs to address anti-Romani sentiment and coordinate efforts against it.
- The Sinti and Roma communities in Germany continue to face deeply-rooted prejudices from a significant portion of the majority population, as well as increasing hostility and far-right radicalization, even as the Federal Government takes steps to combat anti-Romani discrimination.
