International Romani Day, observed annually on April 8, celebrates the rich culture, history, and contributions of the Romani people while raising awareness about the challenges they face. This day commemorates the first major international meeting of Romani representatives in 1971 and serves as a platform for advocacy, education, and cultural pride.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: April 8
- Tagged as: Cultural Awareness, Human Rights, Advocacy
- What’s the hashtag?: #InternationalRomaniDay
- When was it founded?: 1990
- Who founded it?: International Romani Union (IRU) at the Fourth World Romani Congress in Serock, Poland
History of International Romani Day
The origins of International Romani Day trace back to April 1971 when the first World Romani Congress was held in Chelsfield, near London. This gathering united representatives from nine nations to discuss issues like education, language preservation, and human rights. In 1990, during the fourth World Romani Congress in Poland, April 8 was officially declared International Romani Day to honor this historic event and promote global recognition of Roma culture and struggles.
Timeline
- 1971: First World Romani Congress held near London.
- 1990: April 8 officially declared International Romani Day.
- 2004: U.S. State Department addresses human rights abuses against Roma.
- 2006: Council of Europe highlights concerns over growing discrimination.
- 2024: Celebrations continue worldwide to honor Roma heritage and advocate for equality.
Dates (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 8 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 8 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 8 | Thursday |
| 2028 | April 8 | Saturday |
| 2029 | April 8 | Sunday |
| 2030 | April 8 | Monday |
Observed
International Romani Day is celebrated globally through cultural events such as music performances, art exhibitions, and educational programs. It is also a day for advocacy campaigns aimed at combating systemic discrimination and promoting inclusion for the Roma community.
Fun Facts About International Romani Day
- The Roma flag features a red wheel on a blue-and-green background symbolizing freedom and connection to nature.
- The term “Roma” is preferred over “Gypsy,” which has historically been used as a slur.
- Traditional Romani cuisine includes dishes like sarma (cabbage rolls) and pirogo (savory pastries).
Quiz
- When is International Romani Day celebrated?
- What event does this day commemorate?
- What is the official hashtag for this day?
(Answers: 1. April 8; 2. The first World Romani Congress in 1971; 3. #InternationalRomaniDay)
FAQs
- What language do the Roma speak?
Romani, an Indo-Aryan language related to Sanskrit and Hindi. - Why is International Romani Day important?
It honors Roma culture, raises awareness about their struggles, and promotes inclusion. - How can I celebrate International Romani Day?
Attend cultural events, learn about Roma history, or prepare traditional dishes.
Related
- Holocaust Memorial Days
- Human Rights Day
- International Mother Language Day