Fema Employment
Employment Equity.... I am currently filling out a Canadian Government application?
One of the questions asks if you are a member of a visible minority group. I am part Gypsy. Personally I know they/we are not liked many European countries, are we considered a visable minority in Canada as well?
Public Comments
- i don't think that is considered a minority group
- I am American and I can only answer for America. I would assume that, most likely, it is similar in Canada. We are a minority group but not one recognized by the government. I do not know what you mean by "visible". Americans knows we exist... most of them. Other Americans believe that we do NOT exist until one is standing face to face with them. Some more think that "Gypsy" is a lifestyle, not a genetic heritage. There ARE Romani activists, but Romani activism is very new. If you are referencing such as school grants, there are none for Romani. The rights and protection allotted to other minorities do not apply because we do not have legal standing with the government. I can tell you that, in America, if you fill out a job application and write in "Romani" or "Gypsy" you have a good chance of being turned down for a job. Not all employers are like that but many are. They do not come out and say "I am not hiring you because Gypsies steal", rather they come up with something else. You might want to think about that before you tell them. I have done it, been turned down, eventually hired, made a good reputation for myself in my chosen field, and everything went along nicely after that. In America the census does NOT include us and no forms include us. I check "other" and write in Romani. Then I have the pleasure of whoever handed me the form squinting at me and saying "what's a Romani". I explain and get... "oooooooohhhh you mean GYPSY!" often followed by some stupid crystal ball, palm reading, or stealing joke, har-de-har-har. Or worse, a distrusting, disapproving scowl.
