International Romani Day

Yesterday was International Romani Day. This day is very important, not only to commemorate the First World Romani Congress, but to use it as a day to inspire hope and unity. We've managed to get a day to our credit, so I feel if we use this day to unite, to celebrate, it is only a matter of time until we can achieve what is ours by law: equality and human rights. I celebrated by inviting people over to my home for dinner. I had five guests. One was a fellow writer and moderator of our local writing group. I also invited my pastor and his wife as well as the curator for one of our local museums. Also, one of our board members, Debbie. Debbie, bless her heart, came early to help when she didn't need to, but I was grateful for her aid. She made the final preparations much easier. We had a rich beef stew recipe from Spain and a wonderful stuffed Salmon. These were traditional recipes I've learned over the past few years. For dessert, Debbie, a fabulous baker, made sugar cookies with the Romani flag frosted on the tops. The conversation was uplifting. I was able to explain to my guests what is happening to Romani in Europe and everyone seemed to want to help. I also explained the project we as OPES are working on and they seemed very interested. I planted seeds of education and acceptance and I feel it was a very successful evening. I am already making plans for the next memorial meal on August 2nd.