November 5 – Let’s preserve the words that connect us – International Romani Language Day
Language is the “house of being,” says the German philosopher Martin Heidegger, because language helps us make sense of the world around us, to preserve history, traditions and culture. It is the link between past and present. November 5 is the International Romani Language Day – a day when we honor the beauty and richness of one of the oldest living languages in Europe. The Amalipe Center encourages all schools, educational mediators and active students to celebrate this day.
The day was recognized by UNESCO in 2015 at the initiative of the Croatian Roma Union “Kali Sara”, and its first celebration was held in 2009 in Zagreb. The Romani language (Romani Chib) is spoken by over 10 million people around the world and has dozens of dialects that bear traces of Indian, Persian, Greek, Slavic and other languages.
Regardless of ethnic origin, this day is a wonderful opportunity for all students to learn that every language is a wealth, and linguistic diversity is a strength that unites us.
Why is it important to celebrate this day?
Language is a bridge between people. It preserves the memory of generations and builds a sense of belonging. Celebrating the International Romani Language Day at school is an opportunity to encourage respect for cultural and linguistic diversity, to build an environment of inclusion and understanding, and to show that every language deserves attention and respect, but also a chance to fight aggression among adolescents.
This is not just a day to celebrate, but a moment to realize – that the words we speak have a history, soul and meaning. Through them, we pass on experience, emotions and wisdom from generation to generation, from our grandparents.
The languages that connect us
Celebrating the International Day of the Romani Language is also a celebration of diversity – in all the languages that sound in our schools and communities. Every word, regardless of the language in which it is spoken, is part of the common human heritage. When children learn words in different languages, when they exchange meanings and stories, they learn not only to speak, but also to understand and accept.
Therefore, November 5 is a great opportunity for students, teachers and mediators to turn the school into a place where the music of different languages is heard, but one rhythm is felt – that of mutual respect, sharing and tolerance.
Useful resources and materials
To facilitate teachers, mediators and school teams, the Amalipe Center has prepared a practical resource file with ideas, examples and ready-made models for celebrating the International Day of the Romani Language. In it you will find suggestions for interactive lessons, games, exhibitions, events with parents and many other inspiring forms of work. For resources click here -> 5-th-november-n
Language is our memory, our history and our connection to our roots. On November 5th, we invite you – teachers, students, mediators and parents – to join us in celebrating the International Romani Language Day and show that every language is a color in the colorful palette of human communication.
Let’s preserve the words that connect us together.
Anyone who wants to join us in celebrating November 5th can then fill out the form below so that we can promote what you have done.