International Romani Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about International Romani Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. International Romani Day is observed on April 8th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of International Romani Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as amusing facts you should know about International Romani Day.

📅 What day is International Romani Day 2024?

In 2024, International Romani Day is on Saturday, April 8th. It is the 2nd Saturday in April; in 2024, it is Monday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all fascinating details and facts about April 8, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

International Romani Day is celebrated every year on April 8 to honor Roma culture and history. It commemorates the first major international gathering of Romani delegates that occurred in Chelsfield, near London, in 1971. This day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the contributions that Roma people have made to our societies and to recognize the challenges they continue to face. These challenges include discrimination, poverty, and social exclusion. International Romani Day is recognized by various European and international organizations and institutions.

📜 International Romani Day History

The Roma people were originally musicians who traveled from South Asia and settled in various regions, such as India and Pakistan. Despite being nomadic and adapting to different cultures, they have their own unique language and genetic makeup. During the Middle Ages, the Roma journeyed to countries like Turkey, France, and Spain. In Spain, they merged with the Iberian, Jewish, Muslim, and Moorish civilizations, resulting in a group known as the Flamenco. Sadly, the Roma have faced severe persecution throughout history, including being targeted in elimination programs by Nazi Germany and Communist countries in Asia. In the early 1800s, a significant number of Roma migrated to different countries in the Americas, including the United States, Brazil, and Canada. Presently, there are estimated to be one million Roma in the United States, 800,000 in Brazil, and around 80,000 in Canada.

✅ International Romani Day Facts

🔖 Don’t call them gypsies
The Roma people, who have often been labeled as “gypsies,” have endured the use of this derogatory term by Europeans throughout history. It stemmed from a mistaken belief that they were of Egyptian origin.

🔖 They were victims of horrific persecution

🔖 There are about 12 million Roma worldwide
According to reports, there is an estimated population of one million Roma people residing in the United States, 2.75 million in Turkey, and in Hungary, Russia, Slovakia, Serbia, Spain, and France, they make up approximately 12% of the total population.

👍 Why Is International Romani Day Important

In the past and even now, the Roma have been intimidated and tormented. On this day, they gather to discuss current issues confronting the Romani community and how to achieve global inclusion.

During the International Roma Day Open Day, organizers allow visitors to attend a variety of events such as short movie screenings, theater plays, musical performances, and art exhibitions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beautiful Romani arts and cultural heritage through these programs.

The Roma, like many other minority communities across the world, are socially invisible and marginalized. On this day, we view the plight of those ethnic minorities through the Romani people’s eyes.

🙂 How To Observe International Romani Day

⚡ Share your Romani heritage

⚡ Read more about the Roma
If you’re interested in learning about Roma culture and people, there are many fantastic resources that can assist you. Among them is the book “We Are Romani People” by Ian F. Hancock.

⚡ Join the celebrations
Do you have Romani blood in your veins? Use the hashtags #InternationalRomaniDay, #RomaniDay, and #Romani on social media to show the world you’re proud of your ancestors!

📅 When is International Romani Day?

Explore all 🔗 April holidays, including 🔗 Cultural and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about International Romani Day. So be sure to check back soon.