What challenges do Gypsies face?

Members of the Gypsy and Traveller communities can often face harassment and discrimination on a daily basis as a result of negative stereotypes and deeply ingrained cultural prejudices. Unfortunately, many instances of harassment and discrimination go unchallenged because they are subtle and indirect.

How are Gypsies and Travellers disadvantaged?

In terms of health and education, they are one of the most deprived groups in the Britain. Life expectancy for Gypsy and Traveller men and women is 10 years lower than the national average. Gypsy and Traveller mothers are 20 times more likely than the rest of the population to have experienced the death of a child.

What is a Gypsy stereotype?

The two main Gypsy stereotypes are the thief (or degenerate) who contributes nothing, or the romantic Gypsy, unmaterialistic and carefree, who wanders down country lanes with a tambourine. The only real hallmark of a nomadic culture is that it teaches you to stand on your own two feet.

What nationality is Gypsy?

Roma (Gypsies) originated in the Punjab region of northern India as a nomadic people and entered Europe between the eighth and tenth centuries C.E. They were called Gypsies because Europeans mistakenly believed they came from Egypt. This minority is made up of distinct groups called tribes or nations.