The Romani Cultural & Arts Company have launched a Gypsy, Roma and Traveller LGBTQ+ Spoken History Archive

This unique initiative brings to light the important, fascinating and often moving stories told by members of the global GRT LGBTQ+ community, highlighting the valuable roles that these individuals play in the rich complexity of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller life. The result is a dynamic online resource that not only documents and archives but also celebrates the intersectional heritage, culture and experiences of LGBTQ+ Gypsies, Roma & Travellers across the world. 

 

This timely project gives long-overdue voice to the often hidden GRT LGBTQ+ stories that our community members carry with them and at the same time offers greater insight into the wider Gypsy, Roma and Traveller experience - an insight which feels particularly relevant during this current period of social isolation during global pandemic. 

 

The interviews were carried out by Chris Lee, a lesbian feminist of Romani Gypsy heritage and Daniel Baker, a gay Romani Gypsy. Each note of their experience working on the project: 

 

"We’ve been very fortunate that all 20 contributors spoke so openly and freely about their very personal and sometimes difficult journeys as Romani Gypsies who are LGBTQ+. I’ve learned through these interviews how important the Romani LGBTQ+ community is to many people. I’ve also realised more and more through these interviews, the wealth of talent, kindness and goodwill that exists within the community." - Chris Lee

 

To embark on such an intimately personal collaborative project as the GRT LGBTQ+ Spoken History Archive felt particularly poignant during these current times of isolation. The archive will be a valuable resource for many who are beginning their journey as LGBTQ+ people across the variety of GRT communities. Daniel Baker

 

Isaac Blake; Director of the Romani Cultural & Arts Company, said "This is a very personal project for me as a proud Gay Romani Gypsy. The Romani Cultural and Arts Company gratefully acknowledges the support of the European Roma Institute for Arts and Culture in carrying out this important work."