Association of the Roma Culture "Hitano", Olsztyn, Poland
Committee for the Protection of the Jewish Heritage in Tarnow, Tarnów, Poland
In Poland, there are approximately 20 000 – 60 000 people in the Roma minority, but estimates vary. The level of social integration of the Roma is increased through formulating measures in particular areas of support. One area should apply equally to non-Roma neighbors in a similar situation, so that the Roma community is not seen as a rival group (Roma Community Integration Program in Poland for 2014-2020). Discrimination against the Roma is largely due to ethnic stereotypes. Sharing common municipal space is a major factor in forming the identity of its inhabitants, especially as they represent various cultural and historical traditions.
The project addresses the problem of discrimination against and stigmatization of the Roma people.
In Nowa Huta and Olsztyn we will organize discrimination prevention workshops for pupils and teachers (including Roma teaching assistants) and mediation workshops for the age group for young people. We will conduct interviews with three generations of Roma people and their neighbors on the subject of living alongside each other. Social maps of regions, of places that are important to them, will be formed and will be used as a guide for organized walks in the neighborhood. In Tarnów, we will hold a discussion in which Romologists will take part and a workshop conducted by an experienced Norwegian organization.
The project will help to change harmful stereotypes and improve relations between neighborhoods. Approximately 90 people will take part.
Partner Rita Lindanger AS, based in Oslo, will share know-how on working with minorities, including the Roma minority. The Roma Culture Association Hitano will help to organize animation measures and to conduct Roma-Polish workshops. Meetings and sharing of practices in Tarnów will be co-organized by the Committee for the Protection of the Jewish Heritage.
