June is Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month. Across the country there are hundreds of events taking place to celebrate the life, culture, and history of people from travelling backgrounds in attempt to help to break down the barriers of mistrust and misunderstanding that exist between the Travelling and the settled communities.

Events got underway at the official opening ceremony on Tuesday 1 June at the Arts Park in Mile End, east London. Those who attended were treated to a private showing of the Holocaust against the Roma Sinti and Present Day Racism in Europe exhibition, to poetry, music, and song from Gypsy/Romany/Traveller performers, to tea and cake, to live music from the Romany Diamonds. It was a wonderful start to an exciting month.

Wherever you are in the country and however you want to get involved, there will be something to satisfy you. Whether it is an exhibition of photographs and children’s work celebrating Gypsy/Romany/Traveller life in London, the Baildon Green Gypsy Fair in Bradford, Gypsy/Romany/Traveller young people celebrating their achievements in Gloucester, or the national Travellers’ Got Talent contest, June is going to be a month packed with opportunities. There are comprehensive event listings on the Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month website.

Today has been a beautiful day in London. I hope that we can celebrate the rest of Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month bathed in glorious sunshine. But whatever the weather, enjoy it and take care.

– Daniela