Gypsies for many centuries fought for their rights and tried to create an organization to protect their interests. This was first accomplished in 1919, when the National Assembly of Roma of Transylvania was convened. But this did not give tangible results. During the Second World War, the Roma experienced unbearable trials related to the fascist policy of discrimination against them.
And it was not until 1971 that the World Congress of Roma was assembled in London , where representatives from 30 countries gathered. The International Union of Roma was established at the congress, and it is he who is called upon to protect the rights and interests of the Roma in all countries of the world.
This congress was held on April 6-8, and this date has become decisive for the date on which the International Roma Day will be established. From now on, it is celebrated annually on April 8 .
As a result of the congress collection, such important attributes and symbols as the flag and anthem of the Roma were adopted, which gave them grounds to consider themselves a full, recognized, united and free nation.
The flag of the Gypsies looks like a rectangular cloth, divided horizontally in half. The upper field is blue and symbolizes the sky, the bottom - green, symbolizes the earth. Against this background, there is an image of a scarlet wheel, which embodies their nomadic way of life.
Traditions of the holiday International Roma Day
On this spring day, April 8, every year around the world, many events take place, including seminars, lectures, conferences designed to discuss the problems of the Roma, to convey to the world's people the right of this people to respect and adequate treatment.
In addition to official fees, there are many flash mobs, actions against xenophobia, festivals, exhibitions of art objects and so on. The overall goal of all events is to draw public attention to the problems of the nation, to call for help to the disadvantaged representatives of the nation, to help develop the cultural values of the people.
The holiday is celebrated not only by representatives of Roma, but also by activists of charitable organizations and institutions, cultural foundations and political parties. All not indifferent people who are ready to fight for the rights of the Gypsies can join the shares. By tradition on this day it is customary to carry a burning candle along the street.
In addition to the festivities, all Gypsies of the world remember this day the victims of fascism, the Gypsies, who died in concentration camps.
Some facts about gypsies
Gypsies are a collective name for 80 ethnic groups. Therefore, the holiday is international, celebrated by representatives around the world. There are 6 main branches of the Roma: 3 eastern and 3 western. Western - it's Roma, Sinti and Iberian gypsies. Eastern - Lyuli, House and Scrap. In addition, there are many small Roma groups.
Throughout its history, which began around the 14th century, Roma were persecuted and forcibly used as slaves. Since birth, the Roma did not have the right to freedom, education, even an independent choice of a partner in life. Slavery assumed their complete submission to the master,
For many years, attempts were made to assimilate the Roma, abolish their slavery status, and the possibility of their full existence on an equal basis with other nations. And, unfortunately, little could be done for the unfortunate. And only in the 21st century it was possible to create for them an organization for the protection of rights and freedoms.
In this case, the cultural heritage of the Roma is very rich - it's legends with myths, and family legends, many songs, proverbs. Every year around the world festivals of Roma culture are held, the most ambitious of which are Khamoro, Romani Yag and Amala.