Students from the country joined in celebrating April 8 – International Roma Day with a focus on civic participation and cultural diversity

This year, schools, students, volunteers and educational mediators from the Amalipe CMEDT Network actively participated in the celebration of April 8 – International Roma Day.

On this date, the Roma community around the world pays tribute to the memory of the victims of World War II, while celebrating its culture, identity and contribution to society. The day was officially declared in 1990 during the Fourth World Roma Congress of the International Organization “Romano Union”, in recognition of the importance of the First Roma Congress, held on April 8, 1971 in London. Later, in 1992, at the proposal of the same organization, the United Nations and the Council of Europe approved the date as International Roma Day.

It was during this historic congress that the main symbols of the Roma community – the flag and the anthem – were adopted. The anthem is the well-known Bulgarian song “Dzhelem, dzhelem”, and the flag depicts a red wheel with 16 spokes, placed on a blue and green field. The colors symbolize the sky and the earth, as well as the free spirit and traditional way of life of the Roma.

Here is how the events unfolded in the various settlements:

Vratsa Region:

PGO “Elisaveta Bagryana”, Byala Slatina celebrated April 8 – International Roma Day, with an inspiring event dedicated to the rich culture, traditions and spirit of the Roma community. The festive atmosphere was filled with emotion, music and color, and the students showed that through art, bridges of understanding and sharing can be built.

The highlight of the celebration were the dance performances, through which young talents brought mood and strong energy, inspiring all those present. The event became a true celebration of cultural diversity, and the participants were applauded for their dedication and artistry. Through this initiative, the school strengthened its commitment to fostering respect, tolerance and pride in the differences that enrich us as a society.

Primary School “Vasil Levski”, Rakevo village, celebrated International Roma Day with a series of initiatives aimed at learning about Roma culture, traditions and historical memory. The students from the student council actively participated in the activities, who developed a thematic board with selected information materials. It presented both the richness of Roma customs and lifestyle, as well as the tragic events related to the Holocaust against the Roma. The board was supplemented with photos from a photo exhibition reflecting the everyday life and cultural identity of the Roma community.

As part of the celebration, an educational presentation was also presented, through which the students expanded their knowledge and deepened their understanding of the importance of cultural diversity. Emphasis was placed on values ​​such as tolerance, respect and empathy for different communities. Through these initiatives, the school not only celebrated the significant date, but also created a space for dialogue, awareness and building a more inclusive school environment.

Hristo Botev Secondary School, Galiche village, celebrated International Roma Day with an inspiring and emotional celebration that brought together students, teachers and guests in a spirit of respect, tolerance and cultural diversity. The festive program offered rich content aimed at learning about Roma history and culture, creating an opportunity to share and experience values ​​that unite the school community.
A special highlight of the event was the impressive presentation prepared by Vaysel Angelov, who presented the history, traditions and meaning of the holiday in a fascinating way, provoking interest and reflection among those present. Students also joined the initiative with the assistance of educational mediator Klara Kuncheva, and sixth and seventh graders thrilled the audience with their recitals, filled with feeling and pride for Roma culture.
The culmination of the celebration was the performance of the dance group “Veselyatsi” led by Daniela Todorova, who brought rhythm, energy and a lot of mood, turning the finale into a real celebration. The event took place in a warm atmosphere, filled with smiles and applause, and once again emphasized the importance of respect, understanding and unity between people.

Lovech District:

On April 3, the National University “Eng. Georgi Ivanov Valkov”, Lukovit, celebrated International Roma Day – April 8, by paying tribute to the culture, traditions and contribution of the Roma community. On this occasion, the children and students presented an emotional program, including songs, dances and poems, through which they recreated the richness and spirit of Roma culture.

The hosts of the event introduced the attendees to the history of the holiday, the symbols of the Roma community and the main messages related to unity and tolerance. With their performances, the students demonstrated that respect and understanding are the basis of a cohesive school community. The initiative was implemented under the leadership of Pelagia Mancheva, Nikoleta Nikolaeva and Marina Ivanova, who with dedication and inspiration prepared the children and students for the holiday.

Montana District:

On April 3, Hristo Botev Secondary School, Brusartsi, celebrated International Roma Day – April 8 with a festive program filled with songs and dances. The students participated with inspiration and enthusiasm, presenting the richness of Roma culture and traditions to the school community.

Pleven District:

Primary School “Hristo Botev”, Krushovitsa village, celebrated April 8 – International Roma Day with a rich festive program, prepared with many rehearsals, inspiration and active participation of students, parents and teachers. The event created a warm and united atmosphere, in which all those present joined in celebrating the day dedicated to Roma culture, history and identity.

The children, together with the educational mediator, presented a colorful and emotional program of songs, dances and recitals, through which they shared the wealth of Roma traditions in front of the mayor of the village I. Todorov and the other guests. As a sign of respect for the victims of the Holocaust, the educational mediator, parents and students bowed their heads and threw flowers into the Skat River, with a minute of silence in their memory.

The festive atmosphere was complemented by animators who brought games and entertainment, turning the day into a true celebration of unity, friendship and respect. The event ended with gratitude to all participants and support, emphasizing once again that united people can create beautiful and inspiring moments.

The students of the Hristo Botev Primary School, Chomakovtsi village, celebrated International Roma Day with an educational initiative dedicated to Roma culture and traditions. The event brought together students and teachers in a spirit of respect and interest in cultural diversity, creating an opportunity to share knowledge and experiences.

Guests of the initiative were the deputy director of the school, Lilyana Andreeva, as well as teachers Galina Valkova and Mr. Georgiev, who supported the event with their presence. The program included a presentation, as well as the presentation of stories and legends related to Roma culture and ethnicity. Through these activities, the students enriched their knowledge and developed a deeper understanding of the importance of tolerance and mutual respect.

Veliko Tarnovo District:

Angel Karaliychev Secondary School, Strazhitsa, celebrated International Roma Day – April 8 with an educational initiative aimed at familiarizing students with the history, meaning and symbolism of this day. The presentation was conducted by the educational mediator Iena Mihaylova and the deputy director Ms. Petya Kalcheva, who presented key facts related to the holiday and its place in contemporary culture. The students learned more about the First World Roma Congress in London in 1971, as well as the symbolism of the Roma flag – blue as sky and freedom, green as earth and life, and the red wheel as a sign of movement and origin. The connection of the Roma with India was also explained, as well as the importance of the Roma community as one of the largest ethnic groups in Europe with a rich culture, language and traditions.

The initiative also paid attention to the historical memory of the Holocaust, including the persecution and suffering of millions of people, including Roma, Jews and other groups. Emphasis was placed on the need to preserve memory in order to build a society based on human rights, equality and tolerance. The initiative contributed to expanding students’ knowledge and fostering respect for cultural diversity.

Област Добрич:

Students from the Hristo Smirnenski Primary School in General Toshevo celebrated April 8th, International Roma Day, through a series of conversations and thematic activities dedicated to the values ​​of respect, tolerance and cultural diversity. The initiative created a space for sharing opinions and ideas, encouraging students to reflect on the importance of mutual understanding and acceptance.

Through their active participation in the discussions and activities, the students deepened their knowledge of different cultures and developed a more sensitive attitude towards the topics of equality and inclusion. The celebration of the holiday took place in a calm and positive atmosphere, aimed at affirming values ​​that are the basis of a more cohesive and tolerant society.

The students of the “Kliment Ohridski” Primary School, Smolnitsa village, this year also enthusiastically joined in the celebration of April 8 – International Roma Day, by taking part in the festive program organized by the Municipality of Dobrichka. The event brought together participants from different settlements and became a scene of shared emotions, cultural diversity and creative expression.

The performance of the students from the school impressed the audience with an inspiring dance, full of mood, rhythm and artistry. Through their participation, they showed not only talent, but also respect for cultural diversity, contributing to the festive atmosphere. Their performance became a cause for pride and another proof of the importance of tolerance, friendship and unity.

On the occasion of April 8 – International Roma Day, a festive event dedicated to tolerance, acceptance and the strength of the community was held at the “Otets Paisii 1857” Primary School – Spasovo village. The initiative was attended by students from the “Yordan Yovkov” Primary School, Spasovo, who, together with the other participants, created a warm and inspiring atmosphere filled with messages of understanding and unity.

The motto of the holiday – “The Sun Shines Equally for All” – united guests and participants around the idea that regardless of their differences, all people deserve respect and equal opportunities. During the event, greetings were also delivered by representatives of the local community, who emphasized the importance of kindness, acceptance and mutual support. A particularly exciting moment in the program was the participation of students from the school, including the vocal group “Slaveyche”. With their performances, they conveyed a strong message of humanity, empathy, and unity, turning the holiday into a true celebration of cultural diversity and shared values.

Primary School “Vasil Levski”, village of Hitovo, solemnly celebrated the International Roma Day – a holiday dedicated to the culture, traditions and identity of the Roma community. The event brought together participants and guests in a spirit of celebration, sharing and respect for cultural diversity.

Students from the school actively participated in the program with musical and dance performances, which contributed to the creation of a truly festive atmosphere. The performance of the song “Amalipe” was particularly impressive, with which the group managed to impress the audience and bring additional mood and emotion to the event. During the celebration, the participants received an award and a diploma, presented by the Mayor of Dobrichka Municipality, Ms. Sonya Georgieva, in recognition of their active participation and excellent performance. The holiday became an expression of unity, inspiration and preservation of traditions.

Varna Region:

Primary School “Kliment Ohridski”, Stefan Karadzha village, celebrated April 8 – International Roma Day in an emotional and impactful way by presenting a student film dedicated to topics such as acceptance, love and support. The initiative emphasized the strength of family and the importance of understanding between people, regardless of differences.

The film presented the “voice of children” – their feelings, messages and view of the world, reminding how important it is to promote tolerance and humanity. The students showed that love has no boundaries – neither ethnic nor social – and that the support of parents and the community is key to their development and confidence. With their courage, talent and sincerity, the participants impressed everyone, and the initiative became a strong message for more understanding, empathy and humanity.

Shumen District:

Students from the Vocational High School of Agriculture, Novi Pazar, joined in the celebration of April 8 – International Roma Day, which is a celebration of the rich culture, strong spirit and long history of the Roma community. The initiative was aimed at raising awareness and building respect for cultural diversity.

Through their participation, the students touched on the meaning of the holiday and its messages of acceptance, tolerance and equality. The celebration created an opportunity to reflect on the role of cultures in society and on the need for mutual respect and understanding between people.

Primary School “Vasil Levski”, village of Ivanovo, held a public event dedicated to April 8 – International Roma Day. The event was filled with smiles and good mood and created an opportunity for students to get to know Roma culture and traditions more fully.

As part of the initiative, students presented Roma children’s counting games, games and songs, bringing liveliness and creativity to the program. They also made drawings, which were arranged in a thematic exhibition, complementing the festive atmosphere. The event emphasized interethnic dialogue and tolerance, showing Roma culture as an integral part of the general cultural diversity.

Hristo Botev Unified School, Drumevo village, celebrated April 8, 2026 – International Roma Day with a short but meaningful initiative aimed at promoting values ​​such as understanding, tolerance and respect. The event created an opportunity for students to reflect on the importance of coexistence in a diverse society.

The message of the celebration was clear and strong – to learn and live in a spirit of mutual respect and acceptance. Through this initiative, the school emphasized the importance of building a positive school environment in which differences are perceived as an asset, not an obstacle.

Stara Zagora District:

PGSS “Geo Milev”, Maglizh, celebrated April 8 – International Roma Day with an initiative dedicated to the memory of the victims of the Holocaust. Together with the students, the school paid tribute to the innocently deceased Roma, emphasizing the importance of historical memory and the need to preserve human values.

Through shared photos and messages, the event became an expression of respect, empathy and humanity. The organizers and participants emphasized the importance of tolerance, unity and responsibility for the future, so that the tragedies of the past are not repeated. The initiative ended with a strong message of memory and hope – to remember, not to forget and to work for a world without hatred, in which differences unite, not divide.

Primary School “Vasil Levski”, Gorno Sahrane, solemnly celebrated International Roma Day – April 8 with a festive initiative organized by the Student Council. The event combined educational and entertainment elements, creating an opportunity for students to learn about the history and significance of the holiday, as well as the richness of Roma culture.

The program included songs, dances and traditional Roma dances, in which students from different classes participated and contributed to a cheerful and shared atmosphere. The participation of the 4th grade students, who presented authentic Roma costumes and showed the beauty and diversity of traditional clothing, was particularly impressive. The event took place in a spirit of unity, respect and joy, once again emphasizing the importance of empathy and acceptance in the school community.

Plovdiv District: 

On April 1, on the eve of International Roma Day – April 8, students from the “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov” Primary School – Boyantsi village took part in a creative initiative dedicated to the holiday. They made colorful flags using their own handprints to decorate their classrooms or to occupy a prominent place in their homes. The students also prepared a video greeting, which you can see here:

On April 2, the PG “St. Patriarch Evtimii”, the city of Asenovgrad, celebrated the upcoming International Roma Day – April 8 with a rich musical and artistic program, which became a vivid example of intercultural education. Part of the initiative was also a campaign with a “wishing tree”, in which the participants had the opportunity to express their messages. Among the guests of the event were parents, as well as the expert from the Regional Department of Education – Plovdiv, Mrs. Tsankova.

 

Sliven Distruct: 

From April 1–3, Hristo Botev Primary School – Samuilovo celebrated International Roma Day with programs in individual classes under the title “Days of Cultural Diversity.” The general school celebration took place on April 14 during a general class lesson, which I attended.

Kardzhali District: 

On April 3, the Vasil Levski Primary School – Lulichka celebrated International Roma Day with a presentation at the school. The students introduced the attendees to the history and culture of different ethnicities, showing their projects and creative ideas.

Kyustendil Region:

Neofit Rilski Primary School, Dupnitsa, organized a celebration on the occasion of April 8 – International Roma Day, in which students from different classes participated. The event was prepared with the support of educational mediator Kristina Angelova and resource teacher Galina Kitova and took place in a festive and inspiring atmosphere.

As part of the program, the students presented a play, sang songs and danced, prepared by a group of girls. The audience also enjoyed musical performances by young talents who played the saxophone and violin, contributing to the diversity and richness of the festive program. Students recited poems and introduced the attendees to the history and symbolism of the Roma flag. The celebration was a success and left strong emotions in the participants and guests, creating a sense of unity, inspiration and festive spirit.

Pazardzhik Region: 

PGHHT, Pazardzhik, joined in the celebration of April 8 – International Roma Day, emphasizing the importance of the date as a symbol of recognition of the history, culture and strength of the Roma community. The message of the initiative emphasizes the role of young Roma as an active part of modern society – confident, ambitious and proud of their origin. High school students joined the celebration of the day with a clear and strong message: “See us! Hear us! Accept us!”, which reflects the aspiration for equality, understanding and social inclusion.

PGSS “Tsarina Joanna”, Pazardzhik, celebrated International Roma Day with a thematic lesson that emphasized the history, culture and significance of the holiday. The initiative was implemented based on the idea of ​​the theater and journalism clubs led by Lyubomira Petrova and Dora Tsvetkova, as well as with the participation of the junior ambassadors of the European Parliament. During the lesson, students of different ages presented prepared materials containing interesting facts about Roma history, the symbolism of the flag and the significance of the holiday, celebrated on April 8 in many countries around the world. Special attention was paid to the Roma flag and its symbols – the blue sky, the green earth and the red wheel, personifying the movement and historical path of the Roma. The students also learned about the origin of the Roma community from India, as well as the rich cultural heritage and literary examples.

By using materials from “Amalipe”, the initiative acquired additional educational value. The presentation took place in an atmosphere of interest and activity, with students asking questions and participating in the discussion. The main message of the lesson was aimed at respect for cultural diversity, pride in identity and the importance of tolerance in modern society. With this meaningful and emotional lesson, the students sent off the last school days before the holidays with new knowledge, inspiration and a sense of community, proving that school is a place not only for education, but also for building values.

On April 3, students from the “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” Primary School, Malo Konare village, Pazardzhik region celebrated International Roma Day – April 8. The occasion was associated with both a tribute to the memory of the hundreds of thousands of Roma who died during World War II, and with recognition of Roma culture, language and identity. During the initiative, the students were introduced to the history of the holiday and the symbols established at the First Roma Congress – the common name “Roma”, the Roma flag, the slogan “Forward and Upward Roma”, the anthem “Dzhelem, Dzhelem” and the date of April 8 as International Roma Day.

Within the framework of the celebration, emphasis was placed on the importance of understanding and coexistence between different ethnic groups. It was emphasized that despite the differences in traditions and customs, the aspiration for a better future for children and the importance of education unite everyone. The event passed with a message of equality, tolerance and unity, as part of the common aspiration for full inclusion in modern society.

Haskovo District:

PG “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov”, Dimitrovgrad, celebrated April 8 – International Roma Day with a series of initiatives aimed at affirming the values ​​of mutual respect, tolerance and ethnic dialogue. The event created an opportunity for students to actively engage with the topic and express their attitude towards cultural diversity.

As part of the celebration, a discussion was held, supported by a presentation, dedicated to the rich history and culture of the Roma community. The students shared personal stories and presented poems by Roma authors, thereby showing their sensitivity and respect for difference. At the end of the initiative, they created thematic posters with messages of equality and acceptance. Through these activities, the students proved that school is a space for shared values, dreams and an equal start for every child.

The campaign is implemented within the framework of the GLAS project with the support of the Swiss-Bulgarian Cooperation Program, Civic Engagement and Transparency Mechanism (CEM) 2024-2029. The views and opinions expressed are entirely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the governments of Switzerland and Bulgaria.