April 8, 1971, Orpington, near London, was held the first World Roma Congress. Since then, April 8 has a special place on the calendar for all Roma celebrating this day.The day was formally ratified during the 4th World Roma Congress in Poland in 1990.Much has changed in Eastern Europe over 22 years. But one group that has seen relatively little improvement in its fortunes over this period has been the Roma. Unemployment levels among Roma remain high. Access to decent education, health care, and other social services is limited. Representation in politics and business is minimal. And discrimination remains pervasive.
