Communities unite at Gypsy History Month event - London

From the Islington Tribune

CHANNEL Four’s controversial series My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding received criticism for its stereotypical portrayal of Gypsies and Travellers.

At Elthorne Park on Saturday, the real story of Britain’s travelling community could be seen at the first Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month celebration with boxing, ice cream, a football tournament and live music for around 150 people.

The event kicked off at noon with MP Jeremy Corbyn delivering a speech, and around 100 people participating in an open-air mass overseen by Father Aolh O’Halpin.

But it wasn’t just for Travellers – all members of the community showed up.

Carly Waston, 34, brought her daughter Angel to enjoy the fun and frolics.

“My background is Caribbean, but it looked like a good family event, so I came down,” she said. “It’s free and me and Angel have had a lovely time.”

Islington Boxing Club joined the merrymaking by running free sparring competitions, and a friendly football tournament between the Irish Traveller team and the Roma team proved a highlight – with the Roma beating the Irish.

Stalls highlighting Traveller history and contributions to society were bustling, and a bouncy castle, face painting and ice cream sales kept dozens of children enthralled.

“Today has been an excellent event,” Mr Corbyn said. “It’s important to acknowledge the treatment of Roma people across Europe over the centuries, and their achievements in various continents.”

Johnny Powers, 52, who has lived with his family on a site on Castlehaven Road in Camden for over a decade, said: “We have a large community in north London, and today has been magnificent. It’s great to get together, and welcome everyone into the fold. If you look around, a lot of people aren’t of Traveller background, it’s really about uniting the entire community.

“The travelling community doesn’t usually see each other like this unless it’s a wedding or a funeral, so to be able to get together today in the park like this is a dream for all of us. It’s a sunny family day out. What could be better?”