More than 15 young people participated in a workshop held in Novi Sad, dedicated to remembering the suffering of Roma during the Second World War and exploring contemporary forms of discrimination and antigypsyism.
The workshop provided a space for open discussion on the importance of the culture of remembrance, human rights, and the active involvement of young people in building a society based on equality and mutual respect. Through interactive sessions, discussions, and creative activities, participants had the opportunity to explore historical facts about the Porajmos – the genocide of Roma during the Second World War – and connect them with the challenges that Roma communities continue to face today.
Together with trainers Dragan Stanojević and Milovan Pisari, participants discussed how prejudice and stereotypes are passed down through generations, how they affect the everyday lives of individuals and communities, and how education, dialogue, and active citizenship can help overcome them.
A special focus of the workshop was placed on understanding remembrance as a tool for building a more just and inclusive society. Through the exchange of experiences and various forms of artistic expression, participants reflected on how the lessons of the past can serve as a foundation for creating a future free from discrimination and social exclusion.
The workshop 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, combat antigypsyism, and empower young people to actively promote human rights, democracy, and social cohesion.
Through activities such as these, young people are given the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills, gain a deeper understanding of historical processes, and become drivers of positive change within their communities. In this way, remembering the past becomes an important step toward building a society in which dignity, equality, and respect for diversity are shared values for all citizens.