World Day of Romani Language

World Day of Romani Language is observed each year on November 5. It celebrates Romani, the language of Romani communities, and encourages people to learn about its history, share its many forms and support its continued use.

How the day started

According to the Croatian Parliament, the initiative to establish World Romani Language Day originated in Croatia. UNESCO proclaimed the observance to promote the preservation of Romani language and culture, improve the well-being of Romani people and recognize the value of linguistic diversity. The exact details of how the initiative began are not well documented here.

World Day of Romani Language is a cultural observance, not a government holiday. Its events may be organized by community groups, cultural institutions, schools and individuals, with activities shaped by local Romani communities.

A language with many voices

Romani is an Indo-Aryan language, with historical roots in the Indian subcontinent. Over time, Romani-speaking communities traveled and settled across many regions, and the language developed in contact with the languages spoken around them. As a result, Romani includes a range of varieties. The way people speak it can differ from one community or region to another.

There is no single everyday form of Romani spoken by all Romani people. Some speakers use Romani alongside other languages, while others may have limited access to learning or speaking it. This diversity is part of the language’s story, and it is one reason that respectful celebration means listening to the people and communities who use it.

Language can carry family memories, stories, humor, music and a sense of belonging. For many Romani people, keeping Romani visible and valued is also connected to cultural identity. The day offers a chance to recognize that heritage while learning about the variety of Romani experiences around the world.

Ways to celebrate and take part

You do not need to speak Romani to mark the day. A thoughtful celebration can begin with curiosity, respect and a willingness to learn from reliable sources and Romani voices. Try one or more of these ideas:

• Listen to Romani speakers. Look for interviews, readings, music or language-learning materials created or presented by Romani people. Pay attention to who is speaking and how they describe their own community and language.
• Learn a few words. Use a resource that identifies the Romani variety it teaches, since words and pronunciation can differ. Practice with care, and avoid treating a few phrases as a substitute for learning about the language’s diversity.
• Read Romani writing. Explore poems, stories or other works by Romani authors, ideally in Romani and in translation when both are available. A library or cultural organization may be able to recommend appropriate materials.
• Attend a community event. Check for a local talk, performance, workshop or online gathering. Follow the organizers’ guidance, and ask before photographing, recording or sharing event materials.
• Share what you learn. Tell friends, family or classmates why language preservation matters, and pass along resources made by Romani writers, educators and cultural groups.
• Support ongoing work. Consider supporting Romani-led language, arts or education initiatives, or ask a school or library to include Romani-created resources in its collections and programs.

Last updated November 3, 2026.

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