Robert Lovell prt 3

The internet is a powerful tool, one that could be used for negative or positive. There are some websites that are run by folki that claim that they are Proper Rom; then there are those who quietly work away without the grants that appear to be the way of those involved in the Gypsy Industry!

 A good many Romany folki give their personal time freely to help others find out about their backgrounds through historical records. These groups such as The Romany and Traveller Family History Society don’t claim any top dog status and work for the sake of all.

 Last year it was my privilege to meet with the next generation following in the footsteps of Eli Frankham. They are writing poetry and speaking out about social injustices against Romany. Then there are familia in Cornwell using music to explore their roots and connect to our puri folki.

There are many Romany artists who are ready to make this connection and just need a place to perform. In the summer 0f 2007 I attended and played at a Romany/Traveller event held at the outdoor museum in Singleton. It was great to have a place to meet up with folki and to share my songs. I contributed my music for free as I believed that funding was low and it was in a good cause.

 Later in the weekend, though I found out that another performer who was not of Romany background was paid to sing pop music in front of a large crowd. A crowd I hope who had attended the event because they wanted to learn something about our Romany/traveller culture & history.

 There are plenty of folk though whose intentions are genuine as they work together to foster our language and culture. In this way, Gorgo & Gypsy can share the survival skills needed in this hostile world. It is after all our collective responsibility to try to get along with non-Romany folk about us whilst remaining as much as it is possible to be who we are - The Gypsy.

Although there is much sadness within my writing, there is also much hope as many of Romany descent are becoming known today in the UK & elsewhere as poets, writers, songwriter’s and community leaders. I believe it’s through peaceful means that Rom worldwide will gain racial equality …

To all who wish for honesty and equal rights ~ We must speak up now

  Men ker Romanistan We are from Romistan

  men ghilava ta kelipe we sing and dance

  ta savvo Romano and all Romany

  tarda oprey will rise above

  charipe ta duquipen poverty and pain

  Copyright Bob Lovell: January 2008

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