In a message regarding National Roma Day, which is celebrated on June 24, the date on which “the Church celebrates the feast of Saint John the Baptist, a saint traditionally celebrated by Portuguese Roma,” Helder Afonso argues that “all too often, this marginalization This is fueled by a lack of knowledge about Roma culture, its characteristics and its way of life.”
The person in charge of this body of the Portuguese Episcopal Conference adds that the anniversary “can help reverse this situation of remoteness and ignorance, celebrate their traditions with the Roma communities and raise awareness of the difficulties they face in accessing various public services, making them even more important.” vulnerable to social exclusion.
“Education, housing and health are fundamental pillars in the elimination of prejudice, racism and xenophobia. We want to promote healthy coexistence where different cultures and traditions can coexist in dialogue and integration, without isolation or disrespect for the rights and dignity of every person,” adds the document from the National Roma Pastoral Director.
Helder Afonso also takes the opportunity to remember the call he left for the Roma community during a Roma pilgrimage, in Rome, on October 26, 2015.
“You yourselves are the heroes of your present and your future. Like all citizens, you can contribute to the well-being and progress of society, by respecting the laws and fulfilling your duties as well as integrating yourselves by liberating new generations,” he said. The Pope at that time.
For Helder Afonso, “These words represent an encouragement to the Roma community, highlighting the importance of building a new history based on eliminating prejudices and building a more just and compassionate society, often tainted by hate speech and xenophobia.”
“On National Roma Day, we ask that the Church in Portugal propose to move towards communion with the Portuguese Roma population. We ask that those, who feel the understanding and welcome of the Catholic Church, will cooperate in overcoming the distance that unfortunately still separates many of them from a life of dignity and participate fully in Roma and Portuguese nationality,” appealed the National Roma Pastoral Director.
