With a special programme and a formal reception organised by the Mayor of Smederevo, Jasmina Vojinović, 8 April, World Roma Day, was marked in our city today.
Congratulating everyone on the occasion, the Mayor stressed that this date is a symbol of perseverance, and also an important reminder of the need to build a society of equal opportunities together.
“Smederevo is proud to highlight its role in the inclusion of Roma men and women. From the first coordinator for Roma issues to be engaged to the adoption of the new Local Action Plan for the period from 2025 to 2027, we are showing continuity in the fight for better social status, better housing and higher employment for your families,” said Jasmina Vojinović. She stressed that the path to equal status for every individual and better living conditions for all citizens is the backbone of national policy led by the President, Aleksandar Vučić.
Miloš Jovanović, a representative of a Roma organisation, spoke about the rich history, tradition and cultural heritage of the Roma. He pointed out that in Smederevo “inclusion is lived” through concrete projects supporting education and employment.
According to him, the City recognises the Roma as equal fellow citizens who contribute to economic and cultural life, guided by the fact that the wealth of a society lies precisely in its diversity.
As part of the ceremony, a documentary film was shown about the measures that the City of Smederevo is implementing to improve the position of the Roma community.
The event was given a special touch by performances from young talents Berdihan Krujezi and Martin Živković, pupils of the Music School “Kosta Manojlović”.
World Roma Day was established in 1990 in memory of the First World Romani Congress, held in 1971. At that historic gathering, the name “Rom”, which means “man” in the Romani language, was adopted, the Romani flag was established and the song “Đelem, đelem” was proclaimed the official anthem.
