Gypsies

Sirimarco, Elizabeth. Gypsies. 2000. 32p. ISBN 978-1-8870-6891-8. Available at 305.89 SIR on the library shelves.

One of the most persecuted ethnic group in the world, the Romani people have for centuries endured despite the best efforts of European nations to eliminate them. Originally from the northern part of India, Romanis moved from country to country, eventually traveling into Europe and migrating to North and South America.

Their distinctive culture and language has set them apart from the societies in which they live, causing fear and resentment. The Nazis escalated the harassment of Romanis by imprisoning them in concentration camps. They were the second largest group eliminated in the death camps. Known as Porraimos, their own Holocaust has not been recognized by others.

Despite low levels of education and literacy, Romanis have begun banding together to exercise their rights and protect their communities. Officially recognized by the United Nations as a distinct group, Romanis continue to thrive, even as they remain mysterious to outsiders.