Perception: Roma women are immoral and lustful. Their exotic dancing is used as a method of seduction.

Reality: Such perceptions of Roma women are rooted in the historical practice of Roma slavery when young women were used to entertain slave owners. While they still must face compounded discrimination due to gender, social status, and ethnicity, Roma women often lead their communities as entrepreneurs, teachers, mothers, and activists.

Adelina Husić (21),
Hairdresser

“I graduated high school and became a hairdresser in 2015. I also passed my driver’s exam and I drive my father’s car often. I always liked driving fast, music, and fashion. Even as a little girl I loved to be well dressed. My parents always told me that it is very important for me to attend school and get an education. They said that if I followed this path I’d be able to find a job immediately after I graduated. That is why I decided to go to school to become a hairdresser and I was a very good student. I never found it difficult to go to school. My parents raised me to be honest and hard-working, and they always made sure that both my sister and I stayed on the right path and off the streets. I know that, as a Roma woman, only school and work will help me live a normal life. I hate it when people connect Roma women with dirty things as if we were street beggars or prostitutes just trying to make easy money. These things are not true and I want to be an example for young Roma women that you can make a living by being honest and working hard. I appreciate education and I want to work honestly in my field. It is my goal to open my own beauty salon where I could show all my skills and talents. I hope my wish will come true. I am planning to further educate myself about new techniques like manicures and permanent makeup. I try to keep up with the latest fashion and I really like the color red.”