From the Dorset Echo
AN OUTDOOR event in Dorchester will offer people a unique chance to learn more about Gypsy, Roma and travelling people in Dorset.
The Borough Gardens will be hosting the free annual event, which runs from noon to 4pm on Friday, May 31, and aims to raise awareness and understanding about the lives of Travellers.
There will be hands on activities for all ages as well as displays and the chance to explore two traditional gypsy caravans to find out more about life on the open road.
A range of traditional skills will also be on display including peg making, bender building and willow weaving.
There will be musical accompaniment from Dave Rawlins’ mandolin and a there will be a display of photographs and information about the lives of Travellers.
The South West Dorset Multicultural Network has been coordinating the event in partnership with a range of organisations including community workers from the Dorset Healthcare University Foundation Trust.
Dorchester Town Council has also supported the event by providing resources and allowing the event to be held in the Borough Gardens.
The event is part of Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month, which was started in 2008 to raise awareness of those communities and their valuable contributions to society.
It also aimed to tackle negative stereotyping and prejudices that have led to hate crime, bullying and physical violence towards people identified as belonging to the travelling community.
West Dorset District Council community development officer Emma Scott said: “Gypsy Roma and Travellers are the largest ethnic minority community in the European Union with over 12 million people.
“In the UK, they are recognised ethnic minority communities and number 300,000.
“They are also the most marginalised and continue to suffer extreme levels of prejudice and discrimination.”
For more information about the event contact Mrs Scott on 01305 252204 or email e.scott@westdorset-weymouth.gov.uk
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