Mertsi Ärling

Is the best Roma an invisible one?

Invisibility is not a solution – the Roma should be seen and maybe even sparkle a bit

A headmaster of a notable educational institution once asked me if the best Roma was an invisible one? That gave me pause. I had to truly process what I had just heard. The question brought to surface a whole array of thoughts, but my answer – even if slightly sarcastic – was clear: I want to be a person who is also Roma. I will not hide my ethnicity, nor do I need a cloak of invisibility. I can proudly be who I am – with all my colours and shades – and at the same time instil a dash of charisma around me.   

The Roma should not have to choose between invisibility and acceptance. Our identity is a boon for society providing diversity and cultural depth. Invisibility can feel like a safe choice, but it is not a solution that will lead to a sustainable change. The Roma should be included in social debate, and we need be proud of who we are so that future generations can grow up in a world where they do not have to hide. 

If the Roma are made more visible, it will not only enrich our cultural landscape but also build bridges between different communities. It is important that the Roma are given a voice in public debates – also on topics that are not related to our identity – and that the society recognises the contributions of the Roma population both in Finnish history and as part of its future. By giving the Roma culture the attention and respect it deserves, we can lessen the prejudices and increase the possibility of equal opportunities of participation.  

 

Education and the Roma – straight to the top, but avoid falling off the chair

The history of the Roma in Finland is long and complicated – perhaps too complicated. Although every citizen technically has the same rights to education, in reality the road from education to employment can feel like climbing up a mountain – without the views. Supporting Roma youth in education is not exactly rocket science: we only need to open our eyes and see the problems as they are. If we want the Roma to reach the higher levels of education, we have to give them real role models like Roma teachers and mentors – and no, not the Hogwarts professor kind.  

Education is key when talking about equality and opportunities to success in life. The systematic discrimination and prejudices still stop an alarming number of Roma youth from reaching their full potential. Education should truly be available for everyone, and special attention should be given to the barriers and obstacles that stand in the way of Roma youth – those starting from far behind the starting line might need more support and encouragement in the beginning. In addition, it is wise to also make sure that the educational environment is one that appreciates the Roma without belittling them.  

The importance of role models in huge because they offer the youth concrete examples of what is possible to attain. When Roma teachers and mentors become more visible, they become sources of inspiration and a proof that ethnicity and education are not mutually exclusive. This of course requires schools and educational institutions to actively work towards promoting diversity and creating environments where every student feels appreciated just as they are.  

   

Eliminating employment discrimination – forget words, we need actions

The Roma still face prejudice at work, and sometimes it feels like those multiply like balloons on a kids’ birthdays. This systemic discrimination is as invisible as a good restaurant review – but the impacts are deep and long-lasting. Thus it is important that employers and the workplace communities acknowledge these obstacles and take real action – instead of just pretending to do something for show. Diversity and inclusivity are the keys, and if the speeches about being ”a model state of diversity” are true, then our actions should reflect that. This will not only guarantee equality in the job market but also create workplaces where different viewpoints and skillsets enrich everyone’s lives – and maybe even improve coffee breaks.   

Eliminating discrimination is not just our moral duty but also financially sensible. Diversity in the workforce brings in new ideas, perspectives and creativity and can thus be an advantage the businesses need to succeed in competition. Employing the Roma should not be the exception but the norm. This can be attained only if the work against discrimination is systematic and continuous – not just a seminar once a year on International Roma Day.  

If society truly wants to be equal and just, it is time to say goodbye to those dated views and make room for new and positive examples. The skills and manpower of the Roma is an asset that can help the success of both businesses and society as a whole. This, however, requires that the gates of employment are opened wide for everyone, and that the remains of discrimination are swept away. Only then can we create a true culture of inclusivity where everyone feels welcome in the workplace community.  

   

Societal attitudes – it is high time to update the operating system

Although Finland is a pioneer in Roma policy, there is still much to improve. Systemic discrimination is like an old computer virus – hard to detect but the impacts can be extensive and deep. Antigypsyism is, unfortunately, quite prevalent in Europe and a problem that affects us in Finland as well. Perhaps it is time to update society’s “operating system” and delete these old prejudices that slow down progress.  

Societal attitudes are often deep-seated and resistant to change, but that does not mean we should give up. On the contrary, a change in attitudes begins with acknowledging and understanding how harmful prejudices can be. Antigypsyism will not go away on its own, and solving the problem requires active measures and social debate where all voices can be heard – for we, too, can take part in the conversations concerning ourselves.  

Society as a whole should also take a look in the mirror and ask what kind of a future it wants to build. Do we want to keep repeating the old patterns where certain groups are discriminated against and marginalised, or do we want a society where everyone has a chance to succeed on their own terms? Respecting the rights of the Roma minority and treating them as equals is a step towards a better and more just society – and yes, it also means updating old beliefs, sometimes even rebooting them.  

   

Discrimination within – the Roma and their very own soap opera

The Roma experience discrimination also within their own community, and sometimes it feels like we are starring in our very own soap opera. Different views and lifestyles can lead to internal disagreements, and these divides are as useful as a pair of sandals in winter. Solidarity within the community and open discussion are key when attempting to improve the status of the Roma in the society at large – and maybe save us from unnecessary drama.  

Discrimination within a community is a challenge that is not widely discussed, but it does exist and impact the dynamic of a community. It is important to understand that the conflicts within the Roma community are harmful not only to the individuals involved but they also weaken the community’s ability to defend the rights of the Roma and demands of equality. It is time to put an end to the drama and move on to a more constructive dialogue where different views can be expressed without causing division within the community.  

Unity within a community is integral if we want to promote Roma culture and improve the social status of the Roma. This requires courage to face our prejudices and be open to different views and lifestyles. Open discussion and mutual respect are ways in which the community can grow stronger and find a joint path for future. And hey, would not it be nice if we could share a laugh without any drama?  

   

Did you know there is incredible strength in our Roma culture?

Roma culture has many strengths or, in other words, virtues that could be a cultural superpower in society. Respect, diligence, emotional intelligence, arts and culture as well as resilience are like the golden keys that could unlock many societal issues. If these superpowers could be utilised on a larger scale, the society as a whole could flourish in a new way – and hey, who would not like a bit more colour and pizazz in their day-to-day?  

Moreover, Roma culture is traditionally very community-centred, and this sense of community is one of its greatest strengths. With the help of the community the Roma have maintained their culture and traditions over generations, although the world outside has often tried to downplay or destroy it. This resilience is an example of how a strong community and respect for traditions can help people survive through tough times. It is also something that rest of the society could learn from – especially at a time when many feel isolated and lonely to the point of loneliness being by far the biggest chronic disease.  

Art and culture are at the heart of Roma community. Music, dance, arts and crafts as well as storytelling are all ways in which the Roma culture presents itself and its values. This rich cultural heritage is not only property of the Roma but belongs to the society at large. When Roma culture is given appreciation and a chance to shine, it enriches everyone’s life. And yes, it also means we all should learn to enjoy the smaller things in life that come along with music, dance and being together – even if we do not know all the steps.  

 

The change is ours to make – let us not waste it

I am a solution-oriented person and believe that the Roma community has a huge potential waiting to be released. Attitudes change through encounters – not by waving a magic wand. Improving the employment level of the Roma population requires regionally targeted measures, education and mentoring as well as a reform of the social security system. And once we start implementing change, let us take care not to break anything valuable.  

Change begins with small acts and every one of us can be part of it. If we wait for someone else to make the first move, we could be waiting forever – and none of us have time to waste. We should take the opportunity, make bold decisions and dare to demand better. Supporting Roma culture and lifting it up in every aspect of society is a step towards a more just future – and a change that benefits us all.  

It is important to remember that we all have the power to change the world. One small step can lead to a big change if only we have the courage to take it. The potential of Roma community is enormous, and together we can achieve more than we can imagine. But change requires actions, not just talk. So let us ensure that we do not only talk about change but make it happen and do it with a big smile, because a dash of humour can be just the thing we need to change the world.