US Embassy in Prague displays Romani flag in honor of International Romani Day

The Embassy of the United States of America in Prague has displayed the Romani flag on its building to mark International Romani Day and US Ambassador Andrew Schapiro has released a video in which he expresses his support for the inclusion of Romani people into society and the principles of equal treatment. "The Embassy of the United States in Prague is celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Roma and their contributions to the world today. On the occasion of International Romani Day we would like to greet all Romani people everywhere and wish them all the best. Bachtalo Romano D‘ives," the Ambassador says in the message.

Participants in the embassy's "Roma Fellowship Program" professional internship, Denisa Horváthová of the Slovo 21 organization and David Tišer of the ARA ART organization, appear with him in the video. "International Romani Day is an occasion to show our respect for Romani culture and heritage, but it is also an opportunity for us raise awareness of the fact that this group of, frequently living on the outskirts of society, is facing discrimination," the Embassy's press release says.

Representatives of the United States regularly express support for Romani people on International Romani Day. Both this year and last, US Secretary of State John Kerry released a statement on behalf of President Barack Obama and last year the US Embassy in Bratislava, Slovakia displayed the Romani flag.