The Council of Europe launched the 2026 edition of Opre Roma! Month on 1 April with the opening of the exhibition My Black-and-White Shadows: Memento Mori by Czech Roma artist Zdeněk Daniel, accompanied by a performance by Roma musicians Djiben (Tzigane céleste) and a reception. The launch was organised as a side event of the 50th Session of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities and therefore took place in the lobby of the hemicycle of the Palais de l’Europe in Strasbourg.
Reflection on the Roma Holocaust through art
The exhibition presented a series of striking black‑and‑white paintings exploring the personal and historical legacy of the Roma Holocaust. Drawing on his family’s experience, Zdeněk Daniel reflects on the trauma passed down through generations: his father survived deportation during the Second World War, while several relatives were murdered in Auschwitz‑Birkenau.
Created in 2016, the works mark a significant departure from Daniel’s earlier artistic practice. Previously exhibited in Prague, the series is displayed in Strasbourg in the broader context of remembrance, dialogue, and the Council of Europe’s commitment to combating antigypsyism.
Contributions from Council of Europe leaders
The opening brought together high‑level representatives of the Organisation and Roma civil society. Interventions were delivered by:
- Gunn Marit Helgessen, President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities
- Michael O’Flaherty, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights
- Ambassador Kristýna Najmanová, Permanent Representative of the Czech Republic
- Dafina Savic, founder and director of Romanipe
Their contributions highlighted the continued need to safeguard Roma rights, promote inclusion, and support remembrance initiatives across Europe.
Beginning of a month‑long programme
The inauguration also served as a foreword to International Roma Day (8 April) and opened a month-long series of events dedicated to celebration of Roma history, language and culture. Throughout April, the Council of Europe is hosting activities that celebrate Roma contributions to European cultural life and reinforce the Organisation’s efforts to advance equality and counter discrimination.
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