Domari Gypsies "face daily racism" in Jerusalem and Gaza

Video: Domari Gypsy woman Amoun Sleem, founder of the Domari Society of Gypsies of Jerusalem, talks about her people and their culture. Video "The Domari Gypsies of Jerusalem" © Alfred Muller

THEY were probably known as Gypsies before Romani people were ever called by that name. Evidence suggests they left India centuries before the Roma, and they have dwelt in the old cities of the Middle East since time immemorial.

In the time it takes to count to five in the Domari language - yika, di, teren, shtar, panch - any Romani Gypsy will begin to understand how closely linked these two peoples are.

Sadly, the resemblance with Romanies does not end there. The Dom people still face serious stigma because of their race, and this is certainly the situation in Israel and the Palestinian territories.

"The Dom are not represented in parliament or in any of the political factions or institutions. They do not benefit from the international aid sent to the Palestinian people of Gaza. It is as if where they live is invisible to the broader community and the government," writes Asmaa Al-Ghoul on Al Monitor, the Middle Eastern current affairs website.

The struggle of the Dom Gypsies of Jerusalem for Israeli citizenship is still ongoing, writes Yossi Eli, also on Al Monitor.

Many Gypsies living in Jerusalem's Old City have to do odd jobs such as cleaning and panhandling because they lack national status. The Domari language seems also to be in decline, yet the Dom's pride in their ancient culture is clear to see.

"Gypsies have lived in and around the Old City for 1,500 years," says Amoun Sleem, founder of the Domari Society of Gypsies in Jerusalem. Their community centre offers a warm welcome to guests who want to know more about her people.

"They can see the Gypsy culture, they can enjoy Gypsy activities and they can also enjoy having the Gypsy tea, that they never had at any other place in Jerusalem!" The walls are adorned with traditionally crafted pillows, earrings, bracelets and necklaces.

In this YouTube video by Alfred Muller, Amoun Sleem shows you around the Gypsy centre, and talks about her people and their culture.