On September 20, 2024, an important roundtable took place on the topic “Know and Remember: Current Research and Informational Products on the Roma Genocide during World War II.” The event was organized by the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience (DESS), bringing together leading experts in history, education, and culture to preserve the memory of the tragic chapters in Roma history.
The event featured two key panels:
Among the participants was Julian Kondur, a representative of the Roma Women’s Fund “Chirikli.” In his speech, he emphasized the importance of preserving historical memory and the fight for the recognition of the Roma genocide in Ukraine.
“Today, Roma face a crisis of identity, as even we know little about our own history, culture, and language. That’s why it’s crucial to create new opportunities to foster mutual understanding between Roma and Ukrainian society,” he stressed.
In addition to historical discussions, Julian Kondur also presented projects aimed at the development of Roma information space. He spoke about the radio “Chiriklo” – the first Roma-language radio station in Ukraine, which currently only exists as a Facebook page but has already sparked the creation of new platforms, such as ROMA.UA.
Preserving memory and strengthening Roma identity are key steps toward a more inclusive future. Events like this roundtable are essential for the growth of the Roma community and enhancing their role in modern society.
