The 40th Anniversary of the Central Council of German Sinti and Roma is an important occasion to celebrate Romani culture, history and language and to pay tribute to Roma and Sinti people’s contribution to the rich fabric of our European societies. Despite challenges some still face, Romani citizens can be proud Europeans. Proud of the wealth they bring to Europe.

On this solemn occasion, let us remember the lessons learned from the first
recognition of the Roma and Sinti Holocaust and reaffirm that Romani peoplemust enjoy the same rights and treatment as all Europeans citizens.
Unfortunately, many Romani women and men in Europe continue to face
discrimination and racism. It is unacceptable that ethnicity, skin colour or
poverty continue to divide us. Thanks to the work of the Central Council of German Sinti and Roma in the past 40 years, we have witnessed noticeable progress in the treatment of the Sinti and Roma communities in many areas of our society.

For this reason, let me reaffirm the European Union’s solidarity with the Sinti and Roma of Europe and with the Central Council of German Sinti and Roma’s pursuit towards equality for all.