Synopsis

The story of the Roma, who have long been both romanticized and vilified in popular culture, politics, and the arts—from Cher and Shakira to Bizet’s Carmen. But the Roma persevere, even as they have been singled out for intolerance and persecution throughout Europe. Seen as outsiders, and lacking the kind of social hierarchy and political power that could otherwise advocate collectively for their rights and tell their history, the Roma struggle with chronic poverty and disenfranchisement. Touring 11 countries and interviewing dozens of Roma—including Holocaust Survivors, artists, historians, musicians, and intellectuals—the film documents the culturally rich but often difficult lives of the Roma taking us back through history to the little-known story of Roma genocide at the hands of Nazis during World War II. The Roma and their history come to life through the interplay of their poetry and music, along with true stories told by the survivors of concentration camps. As intolerance is on the rise in European politics, we are reminded through the story of the Roma that ethnic minorities often fall prey to racism and genocide.

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