To draw attention to discrimination against Roma, simultaneous events were held in 15 countries across Europe and in Istanbul. Roma stated that the provisions announced in the "democracy package" provide certain improvements but are not sufficient.ISTANBUL - On October 5-6, in observance of the International Solidarity Day with Roma, simultaneous events were held in 15 countries across Europe to highlight discrimination against Roma. In Turkey, the Zero Discrimination Association and the Social Change Association organized an event in Istanbul.
Yesterday, the event featured a screening of the film "Buçuk" directed by Elmas Arus and H. Haluk Arus.
Today, a musical program was held. Roman musicians and the Roman rap music group Tahribad-ı İsyan performed at Taksim Tünel Square.
Roma distributed flowers to those who participated in the event and supported them, expressing their gratitude.
'DISCRIMINATION CONTINUES'
After the musical performance, the President of the Zero Discrimination Association, Elmas Arus, made a statement. Arus stated that discrimination against Roma in Europe and Turkey has reached undeniable proportions, saying, "The Roma community is pushed into neighborhoods without water and electricity in Romania, confined to urban ghettos in Bulgaria, and continues to be the target of increasing Neo-Nazi militants in the Czech Republic and Hungary, and open exclusion in France. They face daily discrimination in Sweden, Germany, Italy, Serbia, and Moldova."
In Turkey, Arus noted that Roma are socially excluded under the guise of the 'Urban Transformation Project' in places like Sulukule, Tarlabaşı, Sarıgöl, and Bursa Kamberler. She stated that their issues of poverty, housing, unemployment, health, education, discrimination, and participation in social life await resolution.
Arus mentioned that the "democracy package" announced by Prime Minister Erdoğan includes some provisions related to Roma, which could provide "improvement." However, she emphasized, "Although these regulations provide some improvement regarding discrimination against Roma, a long-term and comprehensive strategy and program are needed to resolve the issue."
Source: Etkin Haber Ajansı
http://www.etha.com.tr/Haber/2013/10/06/guncel/istanbulda-romanlarla-dayanisma-etkinligi/
