Mobilizing Romani Ethnicity: Romani Political Activism in Argentina, Colombia and Spain

The Roma issue is not just a European problem, but a global one that requires a re-connection. This book explores Romani political activism in Colombia, Argentina, and Spain and argues that it is an interplay between political opportunities, mobilizing structures, and frames of identity. It also discusses the positionality of scholars of Romani background.

Format: Hardback
Length: 316 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2022
Publisher: Central European University Press

The Roma issue is often perceived as a European concern, as the Roma community is the largest minority in Europe, primarily due to historical migrations over the past four hundred years. Stereotypes associated with the Roma, such as the problematic and stigmatized status of a "Gypsy," and the historical and contemporary manifestations of antigypsyism, also have their roots in Europe. However, this book argues that the narrow view of the Roma issue as solely a European concern is flawed. Reconnecting the Roma issue on a global scale offers valuable learning experiences and enhances its significance.

The book delves into Romani political activism in Colombia and Argentina, comparing it to that in Spain. It provides a unique perspective by narrating the experiences of Romani actors themselves. By tracing parallel lineages of Romani activism across three countries and two continents, the author draws broader conclusions about the nature of ethnic mobilization. Mirga-Kruszelnicka proposes a novel conceptualization of this multidirectional concept as an interplay between political opportunities, mobilizing structures, and frames of identity.

This book contributes to ongoing discussions about the relationship between researchers and the researched, particularly in the context of studying marginalized communities. It also includes an original discussion on the positionality of scholars with Romani backgrounds, adding depth and complexity to the analysis.

In conclusion, this book challenges the notion that the Roma issue is solely a European concern and presents a broader perspective that recognizes the global significance of the Roma community. It offers valuable insights into Romani political activism, mobilizing structures, and frames of identity, and contributes to the ongoing debate about the role of researchers in studying marginalized communities.

Weight: 602g
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789633864494