Embassy Press Release

Remarks by Ambassador Nicholas F. Taubman on the occasion of International Roma Day

(As Prepared for Delivery)

April 7, 2008
The Diplomatic Club
Bucharest, Romania

The Ambassador delivers remarks on the occasion of International Roma Day at the invitation of Romani CRISS Director Magda Matache (far left). Bucharest, April 7, 2008.

Mrs. Matache;
Esteemed representatives of the Romanian Government;
Distinguished members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Ladies and Gentlemen:

It's an honor and a pleasure for me to be here again together with Romani CRISS as a co-host of this reception in honor of International Roma Day.

This is the third year that we have hosted this event together, and I dare say it is becoming a tradition.

This year, we mark the 15th anniversary of Romani CRISS. Congratulations to you on your “birthday” and for all the important work you have done in the last 15 years.

International Roma Day presents a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the positive contributions of the Roma and to recognize the vibrant traditions of Roma culture.

But this is also a time to reflect on the challenges that continue to affect the Roma community: discrimination, poverty and lack of adequate access to education and employment.

Ethnic discrimination and social exclusion are issues that affect many nations, including the United States.

What is important, however, is how democratic societies respond to these challenges. A democratic society, after all, is one that promotes the inclusion of all its citizens in economic, political and social life.

The United States has faced many challenges in this area, including the struggle to abolish slavery and to end segregation.

The Ambassador meets with the members of Amaro Del, a Serbian Roma ensemble that provided entertainment during the reception. Bucharest, April 7, 2008.

Fortunately, with the leadership of people such as Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King, we have been able to make a good deal of progress towards establishing a more just society.

As a multi-cultural society, Romania faces many of the same challenges and responsibilities in regards to racism and discrimination. These issues must be recognized and addressed.

Romania has made some progress in recent years in addressing problems faced by its Roma citizens in access to education, housing and employment.

But we all know that much more needs to be done. With the support of the U.S. and the EU, and based on the contributions of people like those in the room today, I am sure Romania can and will become a more just and inclusive society.

On behalf of the U.S. Government, let me say that we will continue to support the work of NGOs such as Romani CRISS to create a better future for the Roma in Romania.

Thank you for your attention, and congratulations on this important day.

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