Romania's interim President Ilie Bolojan sent a message on Wednesday, February 19, Roma Liberation Day, in which he says that there are still gaps affecting the country's Romany community.
"We mark 169 years since one of the most important moments in national history - the emancipation of the Roma. It is important that on this day we remember the sufferings of this community throughout history. The Roma had long been subjected to humiliation, discrimination and a life without dignity. Our moral duty is to know this past, which belongs to all of us, from which we can learn to oppose any form of violence, exclusion and hatred," Bolojan said in his message delivered by state adviser Catalina Galer at an event organied at the House of Parliament, Agerpress.
Bolojan says that "history shows us the danger to which we are exposed when we ignore the suffering of the marginalised, when we do not penalise negative discrimination and when we give in to speech that seeks to rewrite facts and divide".
"The emancipation of the Roma is not only a moment of commemoration, but also of celebration of freedom, hope and dignity regained. The Romanian society has cultivated over the generations a respect for diversity and has encouraged the manifestation of the cultural identities of national minorities. Romanians, regardless of ethnicity, have shared their traditions, culture, language, heritage, consolidating a way of coexistence that is based on tolerance and mutual respect."
Bolojan adds that there can be no true democracy without culture and civic education, and Romania currently has the legislative and educational framework through which the inclusion of Roma is actively supported, in a climate of balance, dialogue and knowledge. He mentions to the point the introduction of the subject "History, Slavery and Deportation of Roma" in the public school curriculum, for secondary and high school students, showing that this way, ignorance will no longer be able to serve as an excuse to dismiss the tragedy of this ethnic group.
"Unfortunately, there are still gaps that affect the Roma community, retrograde mentalities that hinder social progress. Therefore, we should stay aware of the challenges that our fellow Roma people face and continue our efforts to complete what Romania's visionary elites began in the mid-19thcentury. The Romanian Government's Strategy for the inclusion of Romanian citizens belonging to the Romany minority in 2022-2027 is a roadmap with clear objectives and effective ways in which Romania can become a better society for all, governed by equal opportunities and with access to opportunities for all. History has shown us that together we are stronger. Through common commitment and solidarity, we can build a democratic Romania, capable of offering well-being and safety to all its citizens, regardless of ethnicity!"
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