July 17, 2024

The 19th Children’s Roma Festival “Open Heart” – unity, culture, and civic engagement

The recent 19th Children’s Roma Festival “Open Heart,” which took place on May 31 and June 1, 2024, in Veliko Tarnovo, succeeded in bringing together under one sky thousands of children, teachers, parents, and guests from across the country. From the first chords of the Roma anthem “Djelem, Djelem,” performed during the opening ceremony, to the parade held under the motto “Creating the future together,” the city was immersed in colors, music, and a spirit of unity. The two-day annual event brought together over 1500 children from more than 100 schools, as well as young people from volunteer groups nationwide, in Veliko Tarnovo.

The festival was opened by Deyan Kolev, chairman of the Amalipe Center, and Dr. Rumen Rashev, mayor of the Municipality of Veliko Tarnovo from 1999 to 2011.

The festival is unique not only for Veliko Tarnovo but for the entire country, as it remains the only Roma festival that continues to be held regardless of political circumstances, conditions, and funding. This is because:

The team at the Amalipe Center has managed to organize this event for 19 years without the presence of a specific project under which the festival is held.
Throughout these 19 years, the Municipality of Veliko Tarnovo has been a partner in the event, providing a significant portion of the funds needed for organization (such as sound equipment, free broadcasting to Sound and light show for participants, including the Mayor of Veliko Tarnovo’s grand prize, which is awarded each year to a school with a significant contribution to supporting the processes of integration.
The history of the Festival over the years illustrates the efforts towards integration and the place that Roma culture is beginning to occupy in educational processes and attitudes. In the early years, everything was done with makeshift resources, but with each passing year, we have seen

improvements in the children’s costumes, performances, and choreography. This year, the Festival was not only about songs and dances—it featured Roma poetry, reenactments of traditions, the preservation and revival of old Roma crafts, and dramatizations of Roma fairy tales.
Over the years, the tradition has established itself to include, alongside the Festival, an advocacy round table on current and sore problems as part of the accompanying events.
Over these 19 years, it has achieved something very important—it has established itself as part of the cultural calendar of Veliko Tarnovo and has changed attitudes towards Roma culture and the Roma community, despite the sharp reactions to its creation two decades ago. Thanks to the then-Mayor of Veliko Tarnovo, Dr. Rumen Rashev, who was not afraid to accept the challenge of making Veliko Tarnovo the host of the fledgling Children’s Roma Festival, the Festival, though initially timid, managed to establish itself and continues to change attitudes to this day. The people of Tarnovo and the city’s visitors are aware of the Festival, look forward to it, and take pride in it, as evidenced by the numerous comments in Tarnovo groups: “The ‘Open Heart’ Festival is a wonderful event, a symbol of tolerance, understanding, and inclusion,” and “The Festival has been held for years, featuring children from different ethnicities and countries, all showcasing their traditional songs and dances.”
The festival also changes the attitudes within the Roma community itself. The children who participate leave even more motivated by their encounters with peers, the attention and respect they receive, and the belief that they too can succeed. Most importantly, they leave with dreams of better education and a brighter future: “Among the other young people, my son got inspired to study at university. Before, he didn’t want to. At the festival, he saw and spoke with many intelligent young people and started to become interested in different fields of study.”
The festival not only gathers hundreds of participants on stage, but it also relies on the dozens of volunteers who come from all over the country and join in the organization – active students, youth, our former graduates, university students, mediators and activists. It becomes an attractive event for the ever-growing Roma intelligentsia and the fresh forces in the Roma movement (who are not only Roma and not only Romani-speaking Roma but also many young people and mediators who are Bulgarians, Turks, Armenians, Millet groups,

Rudari, and others). These groups continue to be passionate about topics such as Roma pride, Roma identity, ethnic unity, and how to find their place in contemporary global identity without losing themselves.

Marno polе Park became a stage for colorful performances, showcasing the beauty of Roma culture and its connections with Bulgarian and Turkish cultures. Unique dances and songs transported the audience into the magical world of folklore and reminded everyone of the similarities in our traditions. The workshops and crafts demonstrated the skills and talents of the participants, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. From the aroma of delicious mekitsi and kachamak, to fortune-telling and coffee reading by Madam Cassandra, to the numerous school workshops showcasing their students’ creations, there was always something happening in the park. Several campaigns by youth volunteers also drew interest. The tinsmiths from the volunteer group in Etropole once again demonstrated the dying craft live, helping children see how dry theory from chemistry and physics classes can be applied in practice. The Amalipe Center received a special award for its long-standing contribution to the development of Roma culture from one of the few Roma community centers in Bulgaria, “Romano Drom” in Dobrich.

During this year’s edition of the Children’s Roma Festival “Open Heart” in Veliko Tarnovo, volunteers actively participated in the “Voice for you” campaign. The initiative aims to increase young people’s motivation to participate in the upcoming European Parliament elections. During the festival, volunteers distributed specially prepared flyers containing information about the significance of the European elections and the role of young voters in them. The

flyers also included guidelines on why it is important for every vote to be heard. The “Voice for you” campaign attracted the attention of numerous citizens who showed interest and asked questions about the voting process and its importance. The volunteers’ initiative received positive feedback from festival attendees. Many young people expressed their readiness to participate in the elections and to be active citizens of the European Union. In this way, the “Open Heart” festival not only created a space for cultural and social sharing but also became a platform for promoting civic engagement and democratic participation.

The workshop “Real stories from the community” or “Fake news,” as the students called it,

tookplace during the festival day in Marno pole Park. Youth volunteers, united around the initiative, explained how to recognize fake news. Through practical examples and interactive lessons, participants learned more about the signs that indicate fake news, misinformation, and content generated by artificial intelligence. This workshop not only helped to raise media literacy but also highlighted the importance of tolerance and mutual understanding among different ethnicities.

The youth civic campaign “Youth ask: The future we create together” was

part of the project “Intercultural academy for civic participation and tolerance,” implemented by the Amalipe Center with the support of the U.S. Department of State through the U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria. During the Festival, the active students involved in the project conducted interviews and gathered messages from children and adults, answering questions related to active citizenship. They asked citizens what they believe are the obstacles facing young people in Bulgaria, what prevents them from developing, their thoughts on hate speech, and more.

Part of the Festival was also the Bulgarian platform to the european women’s lobby, of which the Amalipe Center has been a member since its

inception. Here is what they shared with us: “The children’s festival is a celebration of dreams! In Veliko Tarnovo, we saw talented children with big dreams. One of the girls, an 11th grade from Sliven, came to our table and said she knew me (she follows the Platform’s posts on Instagram), which made me very happy! But what made me even happier was what she shared: ‘I want to study medicine, and this year will be hard with the graduation exams and tests I have to take. But as soon as I get accepted, I will call you because I want to become a volunteer in an organization that empowers women!’ Strength and fulfilled dreams, dear girls!”

Daniel Simeonov, an educational expert from the Arte Urbana Collective team, participated in the

festival program with a practical workshop. The task for the participants was to create photographs that clearly visualize the word “identity.” He also took part in the round table organized by the Amalipe Center and held at the Veliko Tarnovo Municipality, titled “Turning the Language of Hate into a Language of Tolerance.” As part of the event, a screening of short films was also held, featuring the program “A Look at the Other” – an international selection of cinematic stories against stereotypes, an initiative by the Goethe-Institut Bulgaria, implemented by the Arte Urbana Collective, which took place in Sofia and Plovdiv in April 2024. Participants in the round table included youth, mediators, representatives from the non-governmental sector, local and national institutions, as well as representatives from foreign partner organizations. They discussed the issue of hate speech online, as well as the stereotypes and discrimination that still prevent many people from vulnerable groups from developing.

The parade down the central street “Vasil Levski” was the highlight of the first day of the festival. Under the theme “Together We Create the Future,”

participants demonstrated their unity and desire for a better future. Colorful costumes, loud cheers, and songs—each group showed how proud they are of their hometown and the traditions they carry. The iconic dance in front of the Mother Bulgaria monument was filled with energy and joy, symbolizing the unity of different ethnicities.

On the evening of May 31, the theater group from the Professional High School of Technology and Design “Dobri Zhelyazkov” in Sliven presented a new interpretation of Yovkov’s story “Albena,” revealing themes of love, compassion, and the power of female beauty. Immediately after, students from the Professional High School of Chemical Technologies in Pazardzhik performed their original play “Curved Mirror,” which, through comedy and a touch of sadness, addressed important issues for young people and their problems. Both performances showcased the talent and artistry of the youth. The applause in the large hall of the Veliko Tarnovo Municipality continued long after the young actors’ bows.

Parallel to the “Open Heart” Festival, the Amalipe Center hosted a partner meeting for the RADIRIGHTS project – Counteracting disinformation on democratic rights from May 30 to June 3, 2024. The participants included 26 individuals, with representatives not only from Bulgaria but also from Spain, the Czech Republic, and Hungary. During this forum, attendees engaged in training on effective methods for identifying disinformation within the Roma community and developing strategies to combat it. This commitment reflects the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange in the fight against disinformation and in promoting accurate and truthful information. The project is funded under the citizens, equality, rights and values (CERV) program.

The festival concluded with the official closing ceremony on June 1 and the presentation of the Grand Prize from the Veliko Tarnovo Municipality. This was a moment of recognition for the talent and efforts of all the participants, who during these days demonstrated that kindness and tolerance can prevail over hatred. For us adults, it was a lesson in humanity that we will carry in our hearts for a long time. At the end of the day, special awards were also presented. Specifically:

The award of Veliko Tarnovo Municipality was presented by Mayor Dr. Eng. Daniel Panov for overall achievement to the Professional Clothing High School “Elisaveta Bagryana” in Byala Slatina.
The award for the best group was given to the participants from the United School “Otec Paisiy” in the village of Maisko, Veliko Tarnovo Province.
The award from the Center for educational integration of children and students from ethnic minorities for “Most attractive costumes at the Festival” was given to the students from the United School “Panayot Volov” in the village of Todor Ikonomovo.
The award for “Most attractive participation” went to the First Primary School “Hristo Smirnenski” in the town of Omurtag.
The titles of Miss and Mister Festival were also awarded, with the honors going to Shirin from Todor Ikonomovo and Ivaylo from Varbitsa.
A special award for overall contribution to the promotion of the traditions, language, and culture of ethnic groups was given to the Primary School “Vasil Levski” in the village of Karadzhovo.
The award for the most authentic presentation was given to the students from the Professional High School “Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov” in Dimitrovgrad for their reenactment of the tradition “Kana Gedzhesi.”
In the category for the group with the most original creative costumes, the students from the Primary School “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” in the village of Radanovo stood out.
A special award for debut was given to the Primary School “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” in the village of Tsarev Brod, Shumen Province.
The award for the most interesting choreography went to the United School “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” in the village of Tarnene.
A special award for the most dynamically developing school was given to the Primary School “Hristo Botev” in the town of Mаglizh.
The award for the most attractive dancers was given to the Roma show and belly dance performance by the Primary School “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” in the village of Ivanovo, Haskovo Province.

Of course, we also made sure to recognize the most attractive workshops. The award for “Best Workshop” was given to the participants from Etropole for their culinary workshop and tinsmithing workshop, as well as to the students from the Primary School “Hristo Botev” in the village of Exarch Antimovo, Burgas Province, for their workshop.

How the festival looked through the eyes of student Eliza Stilianova can be understood from her shared experience:

“This year, both I and the participants from my school eagerly anticipated the “Open Heart” festival! Personally, it was also my first event organized by the “Amalipe” Center where I was invited as a volunteer. I found the entire atmosphere to be incredibly pleasant—it was very energizing, beautiful, and colorful. I am very happy that I was part of this festival. This time, I got a closer look at all the preparation, which is neither easy nor small. I gained new knowledge, experienced new moments, and reunited with familiar and dear people. This year, in addition to being a volunteer, I also had to participate as a performer, dancing with my group and quickly changing roles, as Deni says. I am glad that I was part of not only the festival but also most of the events of the “Amalipe” Center throughout the academic year! For me, it was primarily an experience, filled with incredible memories and new friendships! I thank the entire team and everyone who was part of my experiences!!!”

The latest edition of the “Open Heart” festival not only gathered and inspired thousands of children and adults but also highlighted the importance of cultural diversity and tolerance. This annual celebration reminds us that we are part of a unified nation, where every ethnicity brings its invaluable cultural heritage. Once again, Veliko Tarnovo became a stage for unity and acceptance, where everyone could express themselves and be welcomed with an open heart.

The festival was also made possible with the special support of “Kaufland Bulgaria EOOD and Co” KD, Prestizh-96 AD, Ekstrapak OOD, and the Publishing House “Prosveta.”

The festival was broadcast live on our YouTube channel, CenterAmalipeMedia, thanks to the team of Biser Petkov. You can learn more about his production here. The live broadcast from May 31st can be viewed here:

The live broadcast from June 1st is also available for viewing. However, due to copyright holders not allowing their music to be used on YouTube, some of the songs have been muted:

The festival and its accompanying events were honored by a number of distinguished guests, including: Soni Dahiya, Second Secretary at the Embassy of India in Bulgaria, Dr. Eva Zhecheva, Director of the Directorate for Children’s Rights at the Ombudsman of the Republic of Bulgaria, Yolislav Ivanov, Chief Expert on Inclusive Education at the Ministry of Education and Science, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eng. Tsanko Stefanov, Representative of the Regional Administration of Veliko Tarnovo, Eng. Rozaliya Licheva, Head of the Regional Education Office of Veliko Tarnovo, Yulia Vlaeva, Head of the Regional Education Office of Gabrovo, Nadezhda Doichinova, Senior Expert in Preschool Education at the Regional Education Office of Sofia City, Stoyan Stoyanov, Expert in Bulgarian Language and Literature at the Regional Education Office of Sliven, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yosif Nunev, Lecturer at the University of Veliko Tarnovo “St. St. Cyril and Methodius”, Dr. Lalo Kamenov, Director of the Center for Educational Integration of Children and Students from Ethnic Minorities, Prof. Maria Baeva, Member of the Board of the Center for Interethnic Dialogue and Tolerance “Amalipe”, Ognyan Isayev, Linka Toneva, and Violeta Dimitrova from the Trust for Social Achievement, Boni Bonev, Chairman of the Board of the Bulgarian-Swiss Chamber of Commerce, Angela Doseva (Regional Directorate for Social Assistance – Veliko Tarnovo) and Maya Pesheva (Directorate for Social Assistance – Veliko Tarnovo), Alexandrina Dimitrova, Manager of “School Team Training” at “Teach For Bulgaria”, Iliyana Balabanova, Chairwoman of the Bulgarian Platform for European Women’s Lobby, Georgi Petrov from the Association “Forum Civil Participation”, Gancho Iliev, Chairman of the Board of the Association “World Without Borders”. A congratulatory letter was sent by Professor, Doctor of Economic Sciences Yanka Takeva, Chairwoman of the Union of Bulgarian Teachers, as well as from the Chairperson of the Commission for Protection against Discrimination, Mrs. A. Djumalyeva, and the Center for Educational Integration of Children and Students from Ethnic Minorities.

Photos of the festival by Radostina Petkova can be viewed here.

More photos from the festival, created by David Georgiev, can be viewed in the following folders:

You can learn more about David Georgiev here.

The 19th Roma Children’s Festival “Open Heart” was held with the support of: