The national campaign takes place in June each year, seeking to end prejudice by raising awareness of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, histories and celebrating the contributions of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people to society.
Members of Stirling Council’s Community Planning and Regeneration Committee backed proposals to launch a series of local events during Gypsy Roma and Traveller History Month in order to celebrate the communities unique and diverse cultures, history and languages.
Addressing prejudice
The month of activity will also seek to address prejudice and stereotyping, helping to challenge myths for communities who remain some of the most disadvantaged groups in the UK.
Council officers will work with local Gypsies and Travellers, including children and young people, to gather their views on what they would like to see highlighted during Gypsy Roma and Traveller History Month. They will also discuss how people from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities would like to participate, such as telling stories or potentially working with partner agencies to create music, poetry or drama.
Sharing histories and stories
Convenor of the Community Planning and Regeneration Committee, Councillor Chris Kane, said: “We believe Stirling is a welcoming, inclusive area to live and work and we are proud of the partnership work we have already undertaken with Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people.
“We want people from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities to have more opportunities to share histories and stories and be heard in a positive light, sharing a diversity of skills and rich culture.
“Actively taking part in Gypsy Roma and Traveller History Month for the first time will be a big first step in supporting Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people to be heard by a wider audience across Stirling.”
Equality for all
Vice Convenor, Councillor Scott Farmer, said: “Stirling has many rich and diverse communities, and equality and fairness for all is central to our ethos as a Council.
“I’d encourage people to learn about all we will do to mark Gypsy Roma and Traveller History Month and help us celebrate what these communities offer. Gypsy and Traveller people should be met with empathy, respect and cooperation, and by learning more about the rich and diverse histories of the communities we can all take steps to understand and embrace the diversity of cultures.”