Celebrating International Roma Day

Roma Mahalla in the town stretches right to the centre of Janjevo. It is always lively, and on 12 April, it was the site of an interesting exhibition by a young Roma artist, followed by a brief history of the Roma in Kosovo. We were marking the International Roma Day, which is on 8 April, an good weather was on our side. 

Deputy Mayor of Lipjan, Mr. Diamant Bytyqi, and Deputy Mayor for Communities, Mr. Lulzim Qerimi, visited the exhibition on the occasion of the International Roma Day, along with community members in town. The event highlighted the significant role of the Roma community in Kosovo. Both deputy mayors agrees that activities have a special character when it comes to promoting multiculturalism in the community, particularly concerning the Roma community integrated in the city of Lipjan. 

"This exhibition plays an important role in creating awareness about the culture of this community today," emphasised Mr. Bytyqi.

The organiser of the event, Mr. Rdvan Gashi, heading the NGO Multiethnic Culture of Kosova, enthusiastically stated that these small events serve as a reminder that the Roma community is present, has existed through the centuries, and will continue to exist. He proudly showcases the historic events described in the prints, from the origins of Roma people and travellers in India, to the first written documents of Roma present in Kosovo from the 14th century. 

Then, he continues to explain different periods in time when Roma language classes were added in the 80s as a result of the International Roma Union decision on language codification and promotion. We have just learned from Mr. Ridvan that the word ‘Roma’ in the Romani language means human beings, with the idea that Roma want to be equal to all others. The Kosovo authorities and the international community in Kosovo have not forgotten us, but more needs to be done to promote and include this marginalised community. This is a positive signal, as we are seeing an increased involvement of Kosovo in the processes of community development and cultural appreciation, addressing diversity across the communities.

In addition to the history exhibition of the Roma community, a young Roma artist, Enisa Eminovic, displayed her paintings and held an outdoor class with Roma children in the town, further painting ethnic motives. 

"I am proud of my heritage, and since my family are traditionally painters—my grandfather, my father—I took on the baton and will continue. I would love more young people, from Roma and other communities, to enter into creative arts."- Enisa Eminovic- painter

The event was not just a showcase of culture but also an educational experience meant to inform members of the public about the rich heritage of the Roma people.

This captivating event was made possible through collaborative efforts of the Development Coordinator's Office and the United Nations Development Programme in Kosovo on the 'Cultural Heritage as a Driver for Economic Revival of Janjevë/Janjevo' project, supported by the European Union in Kosovo and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.