Every 2 August, the world observes Roma Holocaust Memorial Day to honor the memory of the hundreds of thousands of Roma and Sinti people murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators during the Holocaust.
The day acknowledges the Porajmos (“the Devouring”), recognizing the genocide against Roma communities and committing to fighting anti-Roma discrimination and racism today.
🌟 Why Roma Holocaust Memorial Day Matters
✅ Historical Recognition: Over 500,000 Roma and Sinti people were killed during WWII, with many more persecuted and displaced.
✅ Against Discrimination: Roma communities continue to face exclusion, discrimination, and violence in many countries.
✅ Education: Promotes understanding of Roma history, culture, and the dangers of racism and hatred.
✅ Remembrance: Honoring victims ensures their suffering is not forgotten and helps prevent future atrocities.
📜 Background
✨ On the night of 2 August 1944, nearly 3,000 Roma men, women, and children were murdered in Auschwitz-Birkenau in the "Gypsy family camp."
✨ The European Parliament officially recognized 2 August as Roma Holocaust Memorial Day in 2015.
✨ Commemorations are held across Europe and globally to honor victims and support Roma rights.
📊 Key Facts
✨ Roma and Sinti people were targeted by Nazi racial policies and subjected to forced labor, medical experiments, and mass executions.
✨ Many Roma communities were destroyed, with survivors facing continued discrimination post-WWII.
✨ Discrimination, social exclusion, and hate crimes against Roma persist in many societies today.
🎉 How to Observe Roma Holocaust Memorial Day
✅ Learn & Share: Educate yourself and your community about the Roma genocide using #RomaHolocaustMemorialDay.
✅ Attend Virtual Events: Participate in webinars and memorial services hosted by Roma organizations and museums.
✅ Support Roma Communities: Advocate for Roma rights and inclusion in your local community.
✅ Create Memorial Art: Honor victims through art, poetry, and music reflecting Roma culture and resilience.
✅ Visit Memorial Sites: If possible, visit Holocaust memorials to pay respects and learn.
💡 Why It Matters
✅ Remembering the Roma genocide ensures that history is not forgotten and helps combat rising hate speech and racism.
✅ Supports Roma communities in their fight for equal rights and dignity.
✅ Fosters intercultural understanding and solidarity in diverse societies.
“To remember is to fight against the repetition of history. We honor the Roma victims by building a world without hate.”
🎨 Artistic & Educational Opportunities
For artists, educators, and storytellers:
🎨 Create portraits or symbolic art honoring Roma Holocaust victims.
📸 Share photography reflecting Roma culture, resilience, and the importance of remembrance.
🖋️ Write reflective posts on Roma history and the fight against discrimination.
📌 Final Thought
On 2 August, let Roma Holocaust Memorial Day guide us to remember the past, stand against racism, and commit to justice and equality for all.
🏠 For more art, travel, and cultural stories, visit our CRA ARTS Main Page.
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