Breaking the Chains of Collective Blame: Advocating for Gypsy and Traveller Communities
OPINION: Claire Rice takes aim at ‘collective blame’ – when whole ethnic groups are assumed by the wider public to be guilty of, or responsible for, the actions of a few.
As a proud member of the Gypsy and Traveller community, I will not stand by while my people are unfairly targeted and marginalised by the insidious practice of collective blame. It is time to illuminate the injustice and discrimination we face and demand the respect and dignity we inherently deserve.
Collective blame is not an abstract notion—it's a painful reality impacting every facet of our lives. It arises from deep-seated biases and prejudices that simplify complex social dynamics, scapegoating entire communities for society's problems. But we will no longer be scapegoats.
For too long, mainstream society has painted us with the broad brush of stereotypes, reducing our rich and diverse cultures to caricatures of criminality and nomadism. We are more than the sum of these misconceptions. We are artists, entrepreneurs, educators, and professionals, contributing to society in meaningful ways while cherishing our heritage and traditions.
Our communities are vibrant tapestries woven from myriad cultures, languages, and traditions. We are far from disconnected from society—many of us proudly serve as police officers, teachers, social workers, and members of the armed forces. We are also self-employed individuals and successful entrepreneurs, proving that we are an integral part of society's fabric. Our resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to our strength and unity.
The discrimination we face is not merely a product of individual prejudices but also a reflection of systemic injustices perpetuated by biased media portrayals. Sensationalised stories of crime and conflict serve only to fuel fear and mistrust, perpetuating the cycle of discrimination and marginalisation. We will no longer be silenced by a biased narrative.
From the playground to the workplace, the manifestations of collective blame are all too real for our children and families. We witness the refusal of service in establishments, endure hurtful name-calling, and navigate a world where the fear of the unknown taints every interaction. But we refuse to be defined by ignorance. Our resilience and strength have carried us through generations of adversity, and we stand tall in the face of bigotry.
It is time to rise up and reclaim our narrative. We must challenge stereotypes, educate others about our rich cultural heritage, and demand equal treatment under the law. By uniting in solidarity and amplifying our voices, we can break free from the shackles of collective blame and build a future where diversity is celebrated, not condemned. Our strength and resilience will light the path to justice.
As a proud member of the Gypsy and Traveller community, I call upon my fellow community members and allies to join me in the fight against collective blame. Together, we can dismantle the systemic barriers that hold us back and create a world where all individuals are valued and respected, regardless of their ethnicity or social background. Our voices matter, our stories matter, and our fight for justice will not be silenced. Our resilience will lead us to victory.
By Claire Rice BA, MA, for the Travellers' Times
(Photograph: A detail from a design By Romani Design. Photograph by Eszter Halasi)