Interested in Romani "Gypsy" culture? Read all of this first!

(This was taken from my page over at thisisnotgypsy.tumblr.com. I have not been a good admin over there, because, frankly I am tired of explaining. When I become untired, I may begin posting again. I have to remember that it is not my job to educate anyone..but I do try, and it is exhausting.)

First and foremost: THE WORD “GYPSY” IS AN ETHNIC SLUR. It is a pejorative. It is an exonym that is hurtful and offensive. You need to accept this, period.

We are NOT your halloween costume.
We are NOT your flowy skirt.
We are NOT your fashion sense.
We are NOT your wanderlust.
We are NOT “boho.”

Gypsy is not fashion
Gypsy is not traveling
Gypsy is not a headband
or a costume
or boho
or a long skirt

Gypsy is a hurtful ethnic slur used to refer to the Romani people.

We are a real people, with traditions, culture, and colorful heritage that spans centuries.

Suggested Reading/Interested in Romani culture?

I decided it might be a good idea to put up a suggested reading list here. If youre interested in Romani culture, I highly suggest you read the following:

Dear Tattoo Artists (from this Tumblr)

“Gypsy” and Bohemian fashion. (from gadjedile.tumblr.com)

From gypsyappropriations.blogspot.com:
What its like to be a Gypsy: Crash Course
The Truth About Gypsy Life
The problem with the word Gypsy
…and pretty much every other article on this blog!

Im sorry, but no you cannot, and never will you be. by biggadjeworld.tumblr.com

The Pariah Syndrome by Ian Hancock

Roma Persecution in Europe from Amnesty International

Wikipedias entry on Anti-Ziganism (anti Gypsy sentiment)

Aj-Rromale, a Tumblr Blog

(in the tags I have included some words in which I often see “Gypsy” grouped with in hopes of spreading knowledge to people who group these words together)