Holocaust

International Romani Day

April 8 is International Romani Day. This day is intended to draw attention to the culture, history, and issues of the Romani people, highlighting the contribution of the Romani community worldwide.  This date serves as a symbol of respect for the multifaceted identity of the Roma while also reminding us of the challenges they continue to face today.
In Ukraine, the Roma people have always been and remain an integral part of our shared history and present. In difficult times, we stand together in solidarity, demonstrating resilience, strength of spirit, and unity in the fight for freedom, dignity, and a better future.
How did this day originate?
On April 8, 1971, the First World Romani Congress was held in London. It marked the first official adoption of the Romani flag and anthem, as well as the establishment of key directions for the global movement advocating for Roma rights. International Romani Day is not only a day of remembrance but also a call to combat prejudice, uphold human rights, and embrace diversity as a shared value.
The Ukrainian Center for Holocaust Studies researches the history, culture, and genocide of the Roma in Ukraine during the Nazi occupation and World War II. Educational and research materials in Ukrainian are available on our official website:

● Roma: Myths and Facts – Teachers' manual on combating Romaphobia

● The Nazi Genocide of Roma in Ukraine (1941–1944) – Educational materials

● Genocide of Roma in Ukraine during WWII – Conference materials (Kyiv, October 2016)

● Persecution and Murder of Roma in Ukraine during WWII – Collection of documents and memoirs

By learning more about each other, we strengthen unity.