Mayor of London's Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month reception

Good morning Manor Park,

Yesterday I attended this event at City Hall.

This is an annual show of some support to some of the most marginalised communities in London - as well as a recognition of the historical part played by these groups to the history of the capital, something which often goes unnoticed,

I was able to catchup with Mihai Bica from Roma Support.

He brought me up to date with some current issues - the concerns about the rise of populist political parties both in the UK and Europe, the recent targeting of immigrant communities in Belfast and, more positively, the record number of Roma candidates who stood in last May's local elections around the UK.

It was a fascinating day of music, thought provoking presentations.

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