Romani, Baltic in Latvia

Introduction / History

The Romani (Roma) live mainly in southeastern Europe, but others have spread across the globe. Today, a small remnant settled in Latvia called themselves the Loftitke Roma (Latvian Roma) and Ruska Roma (Russian Roma). Since ancient times, these two groups have existed in Latvia with territorial, linguistic and cultural differences from one another. They share in common that they remain impoverished, underdeveloped and underemployed. The Latvian government and community organizations have taken strides in recent years to improve this, however.

Romani call themselves Roma, which in their language means "men." Rom comes from the Indian word Dom, meaning "a man of low caste who gains his livelihood by singing and dancing." The Romani language, therefore, comes from the name the Roma call themselves.

Roma have their roots in India. They began spreading westward in the tenth century. Large Romani groups were established in the Balkan Mountains of Bulgaria by the twelfth century. Some continued to live as nomads; others settled in permanent dwellings. In times past, and even some today, their nomadic lifestyle made it impossible to attain an accurate population count. Baltic countries’ settlement efforts have resulted in nearly 80 percent now living in urban areas. Regardless of where they lived, though, to non-Romani, they remained mysterious and distinct. Curiosity about them eventually led to hatred and discrimination. In the twentieth century, Nazis killed a million and a half Romani. Today, people still discriminate against them.

What Are Their Lives Like?

People often assume that all Romani have dark hair, complexion, and eyes; however, Balkan Romani sometimes have lighter skin and even blond hair and blue eyes. Most likely, their ancestors mixed with Europeans. Unlike the Romani who have remained in India, many of the Balkan Romani have become settled. They often live in villages or near towns and cities. Some still travel by caravans of cars, trucks and trailers.

In the past, Baltic leaders did not allow Romani to own land, so they began developing unique occupations that they still do today. These included such things as fortune-telling, horse trading, market vending, entertaining, acrobatics, and metal and woodworking. They are especially known for their musical abilities and dancing. Many sing and play instruments at weddings, baptisms and festivals. Unfortunately, they are also known as beggars and thieves. Petty theft (usually by children), begging, and black market peddling sometimes provide families with income. This reputation has caused much discrimination against them. In many countries, they are last in line for jobs. Some women work as domestic helpers but are paid very low wages without health benefits. Many have insufficient housing and unsatisfactory medical attention.

Latvia took steps to integrate and improve Roma life most aggressively beginning in 2011. Rates of children in school and adults in the workplace have seen a noticeable improvement. Some regions with large Roma populations provide support for social housing. Still 40 percent of Roma survive on social benefits and other financial aid.

The primary loyalty of a Romani person is to their family, who hold significant importance in their life. Extended family members generally reside together, and those living in separate homes frequently call or visit each other daily. Romani parents sometimes arrange marriages, and young couples typically marry in their mid to late teens. They often prefer to elope instead of having a wedding ceremony.

Their unique lifestyle separates them from non-Romani. For instance, it is the fascinating manner in which a Romani wears his clothes: as a costume or as a statement; the unusual ways he uses his automobile: as a home, a shop or a shrine.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Many Roma have maintained their religious traditions and beliefs. They believe that ghosts, lizards and snakes are capable of harming humans. They believe that their people have the power to curse others by giving them the "evil eye."

What Are Their Needs?

They need solutions for their housing and employment problems. Although they may act in more sanitary ways, receive more education and have more opportunities than Romani in the Middle East and India, the Romani peoples all have one thing in common: the need to put Jesus first in their lives.

Prayer Points

Pray that the people who have been rejected and discriminated against will find love and acceptance through Christ.
Ask God to give them dreams that speak to them about his great power and endless compassion.
Ask God to strengthen, encourage and protect the small number of Romani Christ followers.
Pray for Romani Christian believers to disciple others, who in turn will disciple others.

Text Source:   Joshua Project