Unlearning Lightbulb: Celebrating Gypsy, Roma, Traveller History Month

Since 2008, every June marks the celebration of Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller (GRT) History Month across the UK.

This annual event serves as a platform for celebration, education, and raising awareness about the rich cultural heritage and contributions of GRT communities.

Join us in Chelmsford to hear speakers from diverse backgrounds within the GRT communities. They'll be sharing their experiences, stories and perspectives on aspects of GRT culture, history, and contemporary issues.

Event features

• Community voices: engaging speakers from GRT communities will share personal narratives, shedding light on the challenges, triumphs, and aspirations of their respective communities.
• Education and empowerment: attendees will have the opportunity to learn from the lived experiences and expertise of external speakers, fostering understanding, empathy and solidarity.

Networking and collaboration

This event offers a platform for networking, dialogue and collaboration among attendees, community leaders, policymakers and organisations committed to supporting GRT communities and advancing social justice initiatives.

Agenda

• 12 noon: Greetings
• 12.10pm: The HE Pledge National Prof Margaret Greenfields
• 12.25pm The HE Pledge ARU Dr David Smith
• 12.40pm: Joseph Jones (GRT Consulting/Gypsy Council)
• 1.10pm: Prof Thomas Acton (Consultant, Romani Cultural & Arts Company)
• 1.40pm: Lunch break
• 2.20pm: John Wilson (Peabody Trust)
• 2.50pm: Creena Mortineu (Luton Roma Trust)
• 3.40pm: Panel discussion
• 4.20pm: Networking event

Location

This event takes place in the Marconi Building (room MAR010) at ARU in Chelmsford. Find out more about travelling to our Chelmsford campus.