The Roma people, also known as Gypsies, have a long and complex history that spans many countries and regions, including Hungary. Most scholars believe they originally came from the Indian subcontinent and migrated westward over many centuries. The name “Roma” is thought to be derived from the Sanskrit word “doma,” which means “man.” Over time, the name evolved to “rom” or “romani,” which became the preferred name for the Roma people.
Historically, the Romani have faced widespread discrimination and persecution. They were enslaved in many countries and were often accused of being thieves or criminals. During World War II, they were targeted by the Nazis in a campaign of genocide that claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of Roma people.
In Hungary, the Roma have a long and storied history. They first arrived in the country in the 14th century, and over time they established their own communities and culture. Today, there are an estimated 700,000 Roma living in Hungary, making up around 7% of the population. Unfortunately, Romanies still face many challenges and stereotypes. They are often portrayed as being lazy, uneducated, and prone to criminal behavior.
Despite these stereotypes and challenges, there are many successful Roma and communities in Hungary. One of the most notable individuals is Lívia Járóka, who became the first Roma member of the European Parliament in 2004. She is a respected human rights activist and advocate for Roma rights, and has worked tirelessly to combat discrimination against the Roma community in Hungary and Europe.
Orbán Kolompár is a successful Roma businessman, entrepreneur, and politician who has made significant contributions to the Roma community in Hungary. From 2003 to 2011, he served as the chairman of the National Gypsy Council, which works to promote the social, economic, and cultural development of the Roma community in Hungary. He founded the Romani Alliance Party, which advocates for the rights and interests of the Roma community in Hungary.
In addition to Járóka and Kolompár, there are many successful Romanies in various fields, including music, art, science, and sports. Their stories demonstrate that with hard work and determination, anyone can overcome the obstacles they face and achieve success. The Budapest Gypsy Symphony Orchestra and the 100 Gypsy Virtuosos Orchestra. Both orchestras have gained worldwide recognition for their performances of traditional Roma music. Their music is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Roma people in Hungary and around the world.
These successful individuals serve as role models for the Roma community and inspire others to pursue their passions and dreams. By recognizing their accomplishments and contributions, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all. It is essential to acknowledge and appreciate the diversity and richness of the Roma culture and history, and to combat discrimination and prejudice against the Roma people.