WASHINGTON, April 8 (UPI) -- April 8 was selected as International Roma Day by the International Romani Union in 1990 to celebrate Romani culture and to raise awareness about issues affecting the Roma.
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry extended his well wishes to the Romani people on the occasion of International Roma Day.
"Today of all days, all the American people are particularly thinking of the Roma around the world. We celebrate the rich Romani culture and contributions to our societies in Europe, the United States, and beyond. We also renew our commitment to remove the obstacles that keep millions of Roma on the margins of society and prevent them from realizing their full potential.
"We each have a responsibility to speak out against hateful anti-Roma rhetoric and all forms of violence, wherever they occur. We must help provide Romani communities the opportunities they need to build a better future for their families.
"The United States will continue to work with our European and international partners to promote tolerance, dignity, and equal treatment for all Roma."
[State Department]
