International Romani Day

Naman Sodhi
Sep 06, 2023 By Naman Sodhi
Originally Published on Sep 06, 2023
A woman with the Romani people flag on a hygienic mask.

Where is International Romani Day celebrated?

This day is celebrated in numerous countries all over the world like Bulgaria, Slovenia, Croatia, Brazil, the United States, and more.

Who is International Romani Day celebrated by?

This day recognizes the Romani people scattered across the globe and urges governments and other communities to treat them with the respect they deserve. It is celebrated by the Roma people and their supporters alike.

When did International Romani Day first start?

International Romani Day was officially recognized in 1990 when Romani representatives from different parts of the world gathered at the fourth World Romani Congress in Serrock, Poland.

Who started International Romani Day?

This day was started by the Comité International Rom or the International Romani Union.

History And Timeline

Ready for a whirlwind journey through time? Buckle up and venture into the captivating world of the Romani people. From their origins to the proud moments that birthed International Romani Day, this timeline is packed with stories that are sure to surprise and inspire!

Migration To Europe

Romani people arrived in Europe and West Asia in the 14th century.

The 1300s

Move To The U.S.

Many Romani people arrived in the United States and Brazil.

The 1800s

World War II Began And The Romani Holocaust Started

Nazi Germany started the genocide of Romani people in Europe, among other minority communities and groups.

1935

First World Romani Congress

The First World Romani Congress was held in Orpington.

1971

Founding Of The Day

International Romani Day was officially recognized at the fourth World Romani Congress, held in Poland.

1990

Traditions And Customs

The history of the Romani people is filled with discrimination. Despite various initiatives taken to better their place in society, Romani people are still victims of the same.

People celebrate International Romani Day to honor the first meeting of the World Romani Congress and raise awareness about the injustices this ethnic community has endured. Several non-profits and communal organizations have their own traditions to celebrate the day, mostly including launching awareness campaigns to educate the masses.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate International Romani Day

Read about the Romani ethnic group in books like 'We Are Romani People' by Ian Hancock. Listen to traditional Romani music like the compositions of Franz Liszt and Flamenco. Share your knowledge about the Romani culture and extend support to the community on your social media accounts.

Facts And Stats

  • The International Romani Day not only commemorates the first congress but also the moment the Romani anthem was chosen and the Romani flag was unfurled for the first time.
  • International Romani Day celebrates the cultural integration that occurred in different parts of the world. For instance, when the Romani people arrived in Spain, their culture and language blended with Jewish, Moorish, Iberian, and Muslim society.
  • International Romani Day helps bring public attention to the need for saving the Romani language, which is severely endangered in Croatia, Bulgaria, France, Greece, Italy, Romania, and Poland.
  • International Romani Day has been listed among the awareness days recognized by the United Nations.

In this diverse world, the Romani people's story stands out with tales of resilience and rich traditions. Yet, they've faced challenges and inequalities that persist today.

Celebrating International Romani Day isn't just about enjoying their arts; it's a call to advocate for a brighter future for Roma communities. So, share your newfound knowledge, attend local events, and promote understanding. Every action, big or small, can contribute to a dance of unity, creating a brighter world of inclusivity for all.

When was The International Romani Union founded?

It was founded in 1977 as the successor organization to the Comite International Rom, which was founded in 1971.

What is the motto of International Romani Day?

This day raises awareness of the issues that Romani people face and invites people to learn about their history while calling for the human rights of all to be respected and observed.

Who are the Romanis?

Originally, the Romanis were wandering court musicians from northern India. They migrated to Turkey, Spain, and France during the Middle Ages and later to Brazil and the United States.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Friday, April 08, 2022
  • Saturday, April 08, 2023
  • Monday, April 08, 2024
  • Tuesday, April 08, 2025
  • Wednesday, April 08, 2026

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Sources

https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/BRIE/2018/620201/EPRS_BRI(2018)620201_EN.pdf

http://www.errc.org/roma-rights-journal/new-leadership-of-the-international-romani-union

https://www.romaniarts.co.uk/international-romani-day/

https://www.hmd.org.uk/resource/8-april-international-roma-day/

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Written by Naman Sodhi

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English with History, Master of Arts specializing in English Language and Literature

Naman Sodhi picture

Naman SodhiBachelor of Arts specializing in English with History, Master of Arts specializing in English Language and Literature

Naman possesses a formidable academic background, having attained a Bachelor's degree in English with a minor in history followed by a Master's degree in English language and literature from the esteemed Sophia Girls' College in Ajmer. Naman has honed her writing and editing prowess through a wide-ranging career that includes tutoring, fact-checking, and writing and editing. Her astute social media acumen benefited mutiple businesses as well as animal welfare organizations where she devised highly engaging social media campaigns and compelling posts.
A veritable polymath, Naman's creative genius which has won her a host of awards in diverse fields such as art and crafts, creative writing, and dramatics. Her insatiable curiosity fuels her quest for knowledge as she scours books, films, TV shows, and anything else she can find in search of captivating stories. 
Naman has an innate love of animals and spends her free time supporting animal organizations and caring for animals. Naman's highly proficient and has broad-based expertise that enables her to lead the editorial team.

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