After much thought and reflection, I’d like to say this to all of those who read my article (“Real Gypsies Contrast with Disney Depiction,” Daily Nexus, April 23, 2010). My original intent, when writing this article, was not to write about race, to come across as racist or to target the Romani people in any way, shape or form. If it came across as such, I’m genuinely sorry about that.
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[/media-credit]Before it was edited to the abridged version that ran in print, the article was written for student travelers as a “how to” on not getting pick-pocketed in dense, touristy areas around Europe (my example being Paris). The term “gypsy” (as an adjective, referring to that nomadic and unconventional lifestyle rather than an ethic group of people) is one that is commonly used in France to refer to the pickpockets. After being abroad for so long, I had failed to grasp the racial undertones of the word “gypsy,” and did not fully understand the meaning or significance of the word outside of this context.
Again, it was not my intention to be racist against any group of people — especially the Romani in Europe. I have nothing but respect for the people I have met during my time traveling throughout Europe.
[…] This caused a lot of uproar back in Santa Barbara, so if you read the article and found it offensive. For that — I am genuinely sorry. I issued an official apology, too. You can read it here. […]
You are still an idiot. The proper word for Gypsy is Rromani(though many still use gypsy, like many Native Americans still use Indian)and it is a race not a lifestyle there are Gypsies who are doctors lawyers politicans etc, just not enough, most are not nomadic and only some gypsies make music. You’re a racist for telling people to avoid a race of people while travelling, imagine the well deserved backlash you would get at UC Santa Barbara if you told people visiting the United States to avoid Blacks or Latinos. If you payed any attention to whats going on… Read more »
Andrea,
Time had passed since your initial faux pas. Having lived in Europe as a student myself, I am certain you have been exposed to much new information, as well as an expansion of your world view. As a global studies major, learning more about the worlds and plights (plural because they vary, and are multiple) of the Roma people in Europe. The horrible prejudiced treatment they receive insociety and EU legal system continues.
So, how have you changed and grown with this? What have you studied, experienced and learned?
Thank you.
KSS