Young people today do not want to simply listen – they want to understand, ask questions, exchange ideas, and actively participate in building a society based on equality and respect for human rights. With this goal in mind, a youth workshop was held in Požarevac as part of the “Remembering for Peace” project.
The workshop was dedicated to remembering the suffering of Roma during the Second World War, known as the Porajmos, while also encouraging reflection on contemporary forms of discrimination, prejudice, and antigypsyism that continue to affect the lives of many Roma people today.
Through open dialogue, educational activities, and the exchange of different perspectives, participants had the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of historical events and discuss how their legacy continues to shape contemporary society. Special emphasis was placed on the importance of the culture of remembrance as a valuable tool for building more tolerant communities and preventing the repetition of injustices from the past.
During the workshop, young people discussed the role of individuals in combating discrimination, the importance of mutual respect and solidarity, and the ways in which active citizenship can contribute to creating a more inclusive society. Through collaborative work and the sharing of experiences, participants reflected on how they can contribute to positive change within their local communities.
The workshop once again demonstrated the strong interest young people have in issues related to human rights, historical memory, and social justice when they are given the opportunity to engage in open discussion and active participation.
The activity was organized as part of the project “Remembering for Peace – Remembrance of the Porajmos and Education about Antigypsyism,” jointly implemented by Forum Roma Serbia and SODI, with the support of the ZIVIK / ifa programme. The project aims to strengthen the culture of remembrance, raise awareness about the Porajmos, and empower young people to contribute to building a society free from discrimination through education, dialogue, and collective action.