A march of Roma women for equal rights and against violence was held in Chisinau in connection with the International Romani Day, organized by the Roma Women’s Platform “Romni” in partnership with UN Women. The participants set off from the Central Post Office of Moldova carrying placards reading “The Roma woman matters” and “Against violence” and marched to the main state institutions, IPN reports.
Elena Sirbu, activist and head of the Roma Women’s Platform “Romni” of Moldova, said she was happy that they managed to stage the march this year and thus kicked off the Romani Week. “We want to be heard, to have the same chances, to have the same access as all other women in all fields, education, health,” said Elena Sirbu. She added that the Roma women are still discriminated against, marginalized, and civil society and also the institutions need to combine forces so as to change the situation.
Lawyer Victorina Luca said that only shoulder to shoulder can women’s rights be respected. It is important for the women to be encouraged, to be offered equal opportunities and chances both at work and in other spheres of society.
Ion Duminica, expert and member of the Voice of Roma Coalition (CVR), said that the organization he represents, together with other partners, compiled a report that will be presented to the UN. This implicitly addresses the problems of the Roma women. It is important for the voice of the Roma women to be heard, for policies to be developed with a focus on the Roma women.
Denisa, a high school student, said she was proud to be alongside women who share the same values. She noted that the young Roma girls continue to be excluded only because of their ethnicity. It is the duty of the Government to provide equal access to education. The Roma women need support.
President Maia Sandu came with a message to the Roma community, stressing that the International Romani Day is another opportunity to raise awareness of the need to make common efforts, to understand and undertake all actions to combat discrimination and ensure integration into society. “I have always admired you for your talent, for your soul eager for freedom, for promoting century-old traditions. Today I notice that more and more representatives of the Roma community participate in the life of society, take part in the decision-making process, have access to positions in the state, serve as MPs, local councilors, heads of agencies and advisers in offices of persons holding public posts,” said President Sandy. She urged the Roma community to be cooperative and to step confidently on the road to European integration.
