Description
Book SynopsisEssential reading for those who want to develop greater knowledge and awareness of the history, culture and lifestyles of GRT people.
There are many misconceptions about the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities in the UK and Ireland. Little is understood of their culture and they are often marginalised by society. This book dispels many of the myths and gives a compassionate and empathetic view of the daily struggles they face including discrimination, racism and poverty. It also reviews criticisms directed at them and determines whether these are justified. Services are analysed to establish what works and what is weak. Packed with expert opinions from professionals working in the field and case studies and vignettes, garnered from personal interviews by the author with GRT people.
Drawing from a wide range of perspectives from both inside and outside the respective communities, this book provides readers with all the key elements required to gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of these remarkable communities and their cultures.
Trade ReviewA much needed and most valuable exposition of the vibrant culture and shameful abuses suffered by one of Britain's most marginalised and disadvantaged minorities.
-- Peter Tatchell, human rights campaigner
“…Written in a style that is factual and easily-accessible, this work is bolstered by excerpts from interviews with members of the GRT and Irish Traveller communities themselves and activists and NGO’s familiar with the history, culture and traditions of these ethnic minorities...Declan Henry’s book is a timely and crucial addition to the small but growing body of work that places the voices of Traveller, Gypsies and Roma central to the discourse. Working together, how can Gypsy/Traveller and non-Traveller communities achieve a shared future encompassing mutual acknowledgement and respect, one where we all realise our full potential as human beings in the truest possible sense?”
-- Dr. Mícheál Ó hAodha, * University of Limerick, Ireland *
Table of ContentsForeword by Allison Hulmes
Introduction
Chapter 1 – Context Setting
Chapter 2 – Romany Gypsies
Chapter 3 – Roma
Chapter 4 – Irish Travellers
Chapter 5 – Health
Chapter 6 – Education
Chapter 7 – Religion
Chapter 8 – Crime
Chapter 9 – Discrimination
Chapter 10 – LGBT Issues
Epilogue
Reference and Recommended Reading
Useful Services
Acknowledgements
Index
