Hackney celebrates Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month - London

from the Travellers' Times

Explore the history, cultures and languages of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities in Hackney next month and find out more about the borough’s history.

Throughout June Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities across Britain will be celebrating Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month (GRTHM) to raise awareness and explore the history of the largest ethnic minority community in the European Union.

Britain’s 300,000 Gypsies, Roma and Travellers have lived, worked and travelled throughout Britain for over 500 years, yet little is known about their history and culture. The result is a widespread ignorance about who they are, which sometimes turns to hatred, fear and misunderstanding.

Gypsies and Travellers have been part of Hackney’s rich and diverse community for hundreds of years, having been passing through and living in the area for five centuries. It is estimated that there are currently about 600-800 Gypsies and Travellers living in Hackney, including around 350 children.

Throughout the month, Hackney Learning Trust together with Hackney Homes, Hackney Council and the London Gypsy and Traveller Unit will be holding a series of FREE ( unless otherwise stated) interactive family events to help raise awareness of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities in the borough.

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