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The Roma People and Bulgarian Racism

July 18th 2008 12:38

Have you heard of the Roma? No, I'm not talking about the Italian word for Rome - I'm talking about a group of people with Indian origins who have immigrated to numerous other continents, including Europe. Bulgaria currently holds the largest percentage of Roma in its population, at an estimated 4.7% of its 8 million or so inhabitants. That's a pretty significant minority, and yet, according to Wikipedia, many are afraid to disclose their race in the census for fear of discrimination. The Bulgarians are not shy about telling you about the hatred they feel for the Roma.

2007 Roma Festival (in Prague)

They refuse to work, they say. Roma unemployment is very high. They refuse to assimilate into the culture, they say. Have they ever considered that the Roma often can't get work because nobody wants to hire them? Or that the Bulgarians are too prejudiced to open up to them and permit them to work on a joint, harmonious culture? Bulgarians tend to believe that all Roma are lazy, morally loose, criminally inclined and a pest. How do the Roma react? They stick to their own, some turn to illegal activities and to crime and do not open up the Slavs either. As a result each group's prejudices against the other intensifies as stereotypes are recreated.

Roma people in Bulgaria

Unlike in multicultural nations like Australia, England, Canada and USA, the racism is not disguised or even thinly veiled. Bulgarians have no qualms about insulting the Roma on the colour of their skin, just as they still call black people 'niggers' (the Bulgarian equivalent) and in a country which is about 95% ethnically homogenous there are few people who advocate tolerance and peaceful co-existence.

Just take a read of this, from website Vagabond:

Most Bulgarians encounter problems dealing with their insurance companies. They may have miserable experiences with the state health and pension systems. But, usually, in spite of these and other complaints, it's the Roma or Turkish minorities who become the scapegoats for their woes. Several factors influence discriminatory attitudes in Bulgaria. One of the most insidious is the stirring up of intolerance by populist politicians and opinion makers, who exploit traditional prejudices.

Bigoted attitudes are not unique to Bulgaria. However, the country's history of isolation under Communism means that it lacks experience in accommodating different groups. Blatantly racist behaviour and language, unacceptable in most Western societies, are a regular part of public discourse. Even Bulgaria's establishment has described Gypsies in terms that would have caused public outrage in the West.

Such attitudes strangely coexist with a new optimism in the country. Many Bulgarians believe they are on the road to “normality”. The brutal and perverse Communist regime has gone. The devastating social and economic conditions that ruined so many lives are being swept aside. Poverty is being tackled. Above all, EU membership promises a bright future. Yet, in spite of economic improvement and democracy, recent polls show that Bulgaria's ethnic and religious groups are more divided than ever.

The state seems unable or unwilling to address these divisions. After 1989, all ethnic groups regained their human rights. Ironically, the freedom to speak and study their languages, practise their religion and enjoy political representation seems to have exacerbated tensions.

Bulgaria's leaders intone platitudes about their society's “natural ethnic tolerance”. But Valentin Danchev, a political analyst and sociologist, believes that this just “allows some Bulgarians to indulge in offensive behaviour while flattering themselves for their ethnic tolerance”.

A significant number of Bulgarians hold completely unacceptable views of minorities. Nationalism is firmly entrenched in Bulgaria's political life, as shown by Ataka, the extremist party whose rhetoric has poisoned the mainstream. Racism and intolerance can be seen everywhere – in the media and in political debates and activities – and offenders often seem unaware of the harm they do.

Take one example: Bulgaria's hostility to what in America is known as “affirmative action”. Taxpayers complain that they foot the bill for the comfort of “lazy” minorities. That view dominates ordinary conversation, public forums and news publications. “Taxpayers' money will continue to support Gypsies,” read one comment under an article about new social housing for Roma families in Plovdiv. “It would have been better, just for a change, to help young Bulgarian families with two or more children, but it seems the state cares more about the Gypsies!” Even a government minister was heard using this kind of language. Emilia Maslarova, Social Affairs Minister, said that she wished she were Roma, so she would not have to pay her utility bills.

More and more people blame minorities for their problems. The truth is very different. Bulgarians are regularly harassed by other Bulgarians, not by minorities. The police often protect criminals. Ordinary citizens have been intimidated by mutri, drug dealers and corrupt officials for years. However, very few Bulgarians have ever been attacked by Gypsies. Yet the idea that the Roma are all criminals is an article of faith among most people. The belief that the Muslim minority cannot be trusted, that it could unleash a terrorist tidal wave overnight, is also gaining ground.

The far right's populist rhetoric touches on all of these themes. “Insolent Gypsy Robs Innocent English Tourist” is an all-too-typical recent headline from Ataka's newspaper. Ataka politicians, and their fellow travellers in the media, claim that such talk wins votes because it voices people's feelings. Yet their rhetoric also influences opinion. And so the vicious cycle continues. An Alpha Research poll taken last March showed that more people than ever, 32 percent, view ethnic conflict in Bulgaria as increasingly likely. An even higher figure, 38 percent, believe that the conflict would occur between ethnic Bulgarians and the Roma.

Meanwhile, the Roma continue to inspire with their music and performances. Gay popfolk singer Azis continues to push barriers of what is deemed socially acceptable in what is a very homophobic society, despite the successful introduction of a Gay Pride Parade in Sofia in June this year (which is nevertheless a landmark). Originating in Spain, flamenco was a dance of resistance to the oppression the Roma face in day-to-day life from a majority of the population.

How do you deal with racism in a country that doesn't see anything wrong with its systematic discrimination? When I found my family trying to justify their horrendous attitudes towards people they have never tried to sympathise with and unfairly accuse of all sorts of crimes, from petty to more serious, I refused to talk to them. I doubt they will change their views, but at least they know that I don't like their views and won't sit at the same table with them while they calmly try to tell me why it's normal to typecast an entire race.

Those of us lucky enough to live in a developed multicultural country can act as role models to fatalistic Bulgarians who are nevertheless looking for a way out of their prejudices. After all, who wants to hate? Next time you are around a Bulgarian or Bulgarians, express your dissatisfaction with the situation in their country. They might just listen to you.

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Posted By: postmoderncritic - Category: No Category

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United Nations definition of TOLERANCE

June 24th 2008 11:16

The Declaration of Principles on Tolerance was proclaimed and signed by the Member States of UNESCO on 16 November 1995. The declaration was signed by the Member States of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) at the twenty-eighth session of the General Conference in Paris.

Article 1 - Meaning of tolerance

1.1 Tolerance is respect, acceptance and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world's
cultures, our forms of expression and ways of being human. It is fostered by knowledge, openness, communication, and freedom of thought, conscience and belief. Tolerance is harmony in difference. It is not only a moral duty, it is also a political and legal requirement. Tolerance, the virtue that makes peace possible, contributes to the replacement of the culture of war by a culture of peace.

1.2 Tolerance is not concession, condescension or indulgence. Tolerance is, above all, an active attitude prompted by recognition of the universal human rights and fundamental freedoms of others. In no circumstance can it be used to justify infringements of these fundamental values. Tolerance is to be exercised by individuals, groups and States.

1.3 Tolerance is the responsibility that upholds human rights, pluralism (including cultural pluralism), democracy and the rule of law. It involves the rejection of dogmatism and absolutism and affirms the standards set out in international human rights instruments.

1.4 Consistent with respect for human rights, the practice of tolerance does not mean toleration of social injustice or the abandonment or weakening of one's convictions. It means that one is free to adhere to one's own convictions and accepts that others adhere to theirs. It means accepting the fact that human beings, naturally diverse in their appearance, situation, speech, behaviour and values, have the right to live in peace and to be as they are. It also means that one's views are not to be imposed on others.

When talking about TOLERANCE in regards to social diversity, discrimination, and human rights this is the most widely accepted definition.

Tolerance is recognising the human rights of everyone equally. Tolerance is finding harmony in our differences and giving everyone the right to live in peace according to their own individual convictions as long as they adhere to human rights.

Tolerance promotes a culture of peace by proclaiming it is everyones moral duty to accept those who are different to you by not imposing your views on to them.

Tolerance is saying "i have my views and you have yours, as long as we both repect our differences and respect everybody's human rights then we can coexist peacefully"

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Posted By: Morgan Bell - Category: No Category

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Does asking for tolerance discriminate against Christians?

June 18th 2008 11:35

In the USA some Christian's feel that modern anti-discrimination laws impose on their religious freedom. But what is religious freedom? Religious people should be able to go to work without persecution for their beliefs but does that exempt Christians from having to show respect and tolerance to others in the workplace? Does being Christian exempt health workers from providing timely care?

Some Christian groups oppose the "Access to Birth Control (ABC) Act" as they claim it discriminates against Pharmacists who have religious beliefs which are opposed to dispensing contraception. Under the legeslation, pharmacies would be required to make sure there are no delays in getting birth control drugs or the morning after pill to customers - drugs must be dispensed "without delay." If the pills are out of stock, pharmacies would be forced to order them or refer customers to drug stores that have them on hand. Pro-life groups say the legislation deliberately attacks pharmacists who exercise professional moral judgment and tramples on any professional or ethical concerns. The measure requires pharmacists to not "intimidate, threaten, or harass customers in the delivery of services relating to a request for contraception" or "interfere with or obstruct the delivery of services relating to a request for contraception

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So, Pastor Hagee - Does God hate Boy Scouts too?

June 15th 2008 22:46

Pastor John Hagee has been in the news for comments stating that Jews were responsible for the Holocaust and that it was God using Hitler as a "Hunter" to force Jews to go to Israel. He also (along with other American evangelical leaders) put the blame for Hurricane Katrina on the gay pride parade that was about to be held. With record flooding and the most prolific tornado season ever in America, who is at fault this time, pastor Hagee?

I must admit I was hesitant to write this. I cannot imagine the crushing loss that would come with the death of a child. I do not in any way mean any disrespect to anyone, in any disaster, who has lost someone. And therein lies my point. Pastor Hagee, why is God selective in his wrath, and who are you to try tell us anything

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Posted By: Jeff Musall - Category: No Category

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Why Is The 'Is Homosexuality Normal?' Argument Homophobic?

May 31st 2008 14:23

This year I have met two young men (one in real life, and one online) who believed that raising the question of whether homosexuality was normal or not was a sign of being clear-headed and objective. I pity these young men because they obviously have not taken the time to get to know people with homosexual tendencies and witnessed how beautiful and inspiring they can be. If they did so they would realise that they are clinging onto arguments made my their forefathers and other homophobes who are so fearful of homosexuality that they cannot accept that it is part of natural human behaviour.

Let's discuss the case of the person I met in RL first. A Sydney University psychology and history undergraduate student of many neuroses, recovering from mental illness and, admirably, vocal about it, we got around to talking about homosexuality, and he cast the problematic question of 'might not homosexuality be a mental disorder' in a 'sad but true consideration' kind of light. My first instinct was never to talk to him again. This probably had to do with the fact that I didn't think that much of him anyway - I would have had a different reaction if this question had been posed by someone I had more in common with

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Some Good News From Africa: Tanzanian President Signs UNIFEM Petition, Pledges Effort

May 29th 2008 01:26

Tanzania's leader has recently signed the 'Say No To Violence Against Women' petition and is working to 'eliminate' violence against women and girls in Tanzania. By making women's rights a priority he is advancing human rights in his nation and encouraging greater gender equity across the country.

Take a read of this email from UNIFEM
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Airport Security vs Privacy: new devices may humiliate transgendered

May 25th 2008 09:42

New Airport Security Devices May Put Transpeople at Risk

Several new detection devices were deployed in Orlando International Airport in 2002. Testing of these prototype machines is to determine whether similar machines should be deployed nationwide. These machines may potentially expose cross-dressing or cross-living individuals to public challenge, humiliation, detainment, not to mention flight delays! Transpeople should be aware of these machines, and may want to oppose their deployment on the grounds that they pose a violation of privacy. Information on how to register opposition is given below

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The Appalling Treatment of Gays and Lesbians in Uganda

May 24th 2008 03:39

Even as California is about to put its new law that allows same-sex marriage in place, some of the world's poorest nations are facing formidable difficulties in finding a voice and maintaining a positive self-image as they face widespread homophobia.

Somewhere in Africa, the protests continue...

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