Close to 300,000 Gypsies live in UK today and yet not much is known about them except for what is reported in the media. They have roamed the country since the last 500 years. They have travelled, worked and contributed through their culture, but still have no definite place or standing in society today. Known as an ethnic minority group they are labelled as lazy, illiterate and thieves by what they refer to as the ‘Countrymen’. Through this site I have tried to uncover the lesser known facts and show the balance that is conveniently ignored.
Journalists report on what harm the Gypsies do and validate it with quotes from authorities sidestepping the key rule of balance and ignore the opinion of a Gypsies. The authorities give a diplomatic statement being careful to mention Gypsies as part of ‘any other’ minority group and that all are looked after ‘equally’. In all of this the real picture is lost.
The real picture is not as grim. The misunderstood colourful and lively community has much to share and society at large may just be beginning to come to terms with it.
Organizations fighting for Gypsy rights though have little faith in the new Government. Jill Brown of the London Gypsy and Traveller Unit speaks out about the new policy.