London based charity exhibits Gypsy heritage and culture
23.06.10
June being the month for celebrating Gypsy Roma Traveller History, groups and c
harities are getting together to make their mark.
The London Gypsy Traveller Unit (LGTU) launched their exhibition on Thursday the 17th showcasing their collection of Gypsy and Traveller Heritage in London over the years. Photos and stories were displayed along with Gypsy accessories. The event, held at Idea store- Bow, attracted travellers and non travellers wanting to know more about the marginalised group.
Marylyn Royce who came on the suggestion of her half gypsy friend Andy Wilson said, “It’s nice to see the other side. I grew up next to a Gypsy settlement and always heard negative things. Although I never was against them it’s nice to know more about their culture through these events.”
The Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month (GRTHM) was started three years ago with the help of government funding. Various organizations and representatives from the Gypsy and Traveller community have since jumped in to enrich the month with events and shows.
The LGTU advises the Gypsies and Travellers on their rights and helps permanent settlers cope with settled life. Geraldine Lindsay, spokesperson and administrator for the charity says, “People are still very much against Gypsies and travellers and think they are uncultured whereas it is exactly the opposite. Very little is known about their culture and through the exhibition we are doing our bit of shedding some light on it.”