ENGLISH
Finnish Roma people are an interesting minority.
The Roma people arrived to Finland in the 16th century and that is when the history of the Finnish Roma begins. Roma people are originally from India, and their language, Romani, belongs to the Indo-European language family. The Romani language is an endangered language, and efforts are being made to revive it. There are language courses and learning materials that are being developed. Roma culture is an international culture, but there are many regional differences. The Sanskrit and Hindi languages spoken in India have many similarities with the Romani language.
The Roma are part of Finland's diverse culture. Their traditions, language and customs enrich us with their existence. It is therefore important to nurture this culture so that it lives and develops for future generations.
The national dress of Roma women Finland are very large, usually black velvet skirts and decorative and accompanied with white or light-colored lace shirts. Men dress in black straight pants and a neat dress shirt. Shoes are preferably black leather shoes. The appearance is well groomed and neat.
Traditionally, Roma practiced special professions, such as animal domestication, palmistry, horse care, and blacksmithing and handicrafts. Today, Roma people have all kinds of professions.
Romani culture includes a strong musical tradition. The Roma are known for their music, which is often rhythmic and emotional. There are many famous Romani singers in Finland. Music and dancing are important parts of their celebrations, such as weddings, which can last for several days and include plenty of food and joy.
Unfortunately, the Roma have faced many challenges. They have often been discriminated against and treated unfairly. Such prejudices and discrimination have affected the lives of Roma and their opportunities to integrate into society.
The Roma people arrived to Finland in the 16th century and that is when the history of the Finnish Roma begins. Roma people are originally from India, and their language, Romani, belongs to the Indo-European language family. The Romani language is an endangered language, and efforts are being made to revive it. There are language courses and learning materials that are being developed. Roma culture is an international culture, but there are many regional differences. The Sanskrit and Hindi languages spoken in India have many similarities with the Romani language.
The Roma are part of Finland's diverse culture. Their traditions, language and customs enrich us with their existence. It is therefore important to nurture this culture so that it lives and develops for future generations.
The national dress of Roma women Finland are very large, usually black velvet skirts and decorative and accompanied with white or light-colored lace shirts. Men dress in black straight pants and a neat dress shirt. Shoes are preferably black leather shoes. The appearance is well groomed and neat.
Traditionally, Roma practiced special professions, such as animal domestication, palmistry, horse care, and blacksmithing and handicrafts. Today, Roma people have all kinds of professions.
Romani culture includes a strong musical tradition. The Roma are known for their music, which is often rhythmic and emotional. There are many famous Romani singers in Finland. Music and dancing are important parts of their celebrations, such as weddings, which can last for several days and include plenty of food and joy.
Unfortunately, the Roma have faced many challenges. They have often been discriminated against and treated unfairly. Such prejudices and discrimination have affected the lives of Roma and their opportunities to integrate into society.
Minna, OLS Community Manager – Finnish