Respectful Language: Use "Roma," "Romani," or "Traveller"—Not "Gypsy"

The term "gypsy" is widely considered a slur—pejorative, stereotypical, and offensive to the people it targets. It stems from a medieval misconception that they came from Egypt.

Preferred Terms

• Roma / Romani – The largest group, originating in North India (~1000 CE), now across Europe and Americas.
• Traveller / Travellers – Used in UK/Ireland for distinct nomadic groups (Irish Travellers, Scottish Travellers) with separate histories.
• Sinti, Kale, Manush, Romanichal – Sub-group self-designations.

Why It Matters

• These are distinct ethnic groups with diverse cultures, languages (Romani dialects), and histories.
• Generalizations ("gypsies do X") erase diversity and perpetuate harmful stereotypes (criminality, fortune-telling, dirtiness).
• Individuals have all the same variation as any population—professionals, artists, workers, families.

Use specific, respectful terminology. Ask individuals how they self-identify if relevant.