TNLIP, in collaboration with TNO – The Neighborhood Organization, hosted a webinar on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, titled “Understanding and Supporting Roma Youth and Their Families.”
This 90-minute session was tailored for service providers and frontline staff working with newcomer communities, with a focus on Roma populations in neighbourhoods such as Flemingdon Park and Thorncliffe Park. The session aimed to build awareness of the history, migration experiences, and systemic barriers faced by Roma families in Canada. Facilitated by Livia Kenyeres, Youth Outreach Worker at TNO – The Neighbourhood Organization, the webinar addressed common stereotypes, shared culturally sensitive and trauma-informed strategies for support, and emphasized the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion in service delivery.
Although resources specific to Roma communities remain limited, the following links may be helpful for further learning:
- Education of Roma Children (Council of Europe)
Pedagogical resources including film-based materials on Roma history and culture. - Twinkl – Gypsy, Roma, Traveller Educational Resources
Lesson plans, activities, and classroom materials for educators. - Friends, Families and Travellers – Teaching Resources
Information for educators about the Nazi persecution of Roma and Sinti communities. - REYN – International Roma Day Archives
Articles and resources celebrating Roma history, culture, and rights. - Live Science – Roma Culture Overview
An introduction to Roma customs, spiritual beliefs, and traditions. - EUROCITIES – Roma Children’s Education & Inclusion
Insights into the challenges and solutions for Roma children’s access to quality education.
Click here to access the webinar recording