Roma Voices: A Celebration of European Diversity at Khamoro. This was the name of the second international event of the European project Sound of Diversity, which took place from May 28–30, 2025, as part of the Khamoro Festival. Representatives of cities, organizations, and communities came together to explore how culture can be a tool to promote equality, minority inclusion, and the fight against discrimination.
Foreign partners of the Sound of Diversity project arrived in Prague on Wednesday, May 28, welcomed by persistent rain. Despite the weather, everyone made their way to the Klajazzrom concert at Čapadlo in Prague, held in improvised rainy conditions.
The official professional program began on Thursday, May 29, with a presentation of the City of Prague’s cultural strategy, attended by representatives of the City Hall, the European Commission Representation, and Kreativní Praha. The discussion focused on how cities can actively support diversity and inclusion through cultural policies and public initiatives.
In the afternoon, attention turned to the topic of combating antigypsyism with the panel discussion Fighting Antigypsyism Through Culture. Experts from Czech and European organizations presented projects focused on awareness-raising, education, and artistic activism. The Khamoro Festival was highlighted as one of the key tools promoting a positive image of Roma culture and helping to break down prejudices.
The evening was filled with emotions, music, and stories. Our international partners attended the launch of the book I See Music in Color by Patrik Banga, which traces the life journey of blind Roma musician Mário Bihári in Prague’s Žižkov district.
The third day of the program was dedicated to sharing practical experiences with minority integration in urban environments. Speakers included representatives of the House of National Minorities, city coordinators, and other actors involved in community engagement in Prague.
The highlight of the entire event was the Defilé – a parade through the center of Prague featuring bands performing at Khamoro, children’s traditional dance groups from across the Czech Republic, and members of the public. This festive moment was not just a cultural celebration but also a symbolic gesture, strengthening the visibility of the Roma community and promoting intercultural dialogue in European cities.
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