Picture of the Houses of Parliament

MPs publish Early Day Motion in parliament in support of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month

On 10 June 2025, MPs published an Early Day Motion recognising the importance of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month (GRTHM) in June, encouraging support and celebration.

An early day motion is a proposal submitted by an MP or a group of MPs in the Commons to draw the attention of the House to a particular issue, event or campaign.

The Early Day Motion, which can be read in full below, recognises the impact GRTHM can have on inclusion, education and tackling stereotypes, as well as the ongoing systemic barriers Romany Gypsy, Roma, Irish Traveller and travelling communities face.

Speaking on the Early Day Motion, Mary K Foy MP, Chair of All Party Parliamentary Group for Gypsies, Travellers and Roma said:

Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month is an important opportunity to celebrate the rich and diverse histories, cultures and traditions of Romany Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, who are often too readily discriminated against.

Although officially marked in June, inclusivity and acceptance can and should be promoted all year round, and our Early Day Motion, with the support of MPs from several Parties, recognises the need to address ongoing barriers these communities face at a government and policy level.”

Read the Early Day Motion below:

Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month 2025

That this House recognises June as Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month; celebrates the rich and diverse cultures, histories and contributions of Romany Gypsy, Irish Traveller, Roma, New Traveller, Showmen and Liveaboard Boater communities across the UK; acknowledges that since its launch in 2008, Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month has played a vital role in educating the wider public, challenging stereotypes, and promoting understanding and inclusion; further recognises the ongoing barriers faced by these communities, including discrimination, social exclusion and inequality in access to services; and encourages everyone to support and celebrate Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month 2025.

Signed:

Mary K Foy MP

Kim Johnson MP

Jim Shannon MP

Andrew George MP

Neil Duncan-Jordan MP

Jeremy Corbyn MP

John McDonnell MP

John Grady MP

Ayoub Kahn MP

Olivia Blake MP

Chris Law MP

Ellie Chowns MP

[END]

About Friends, Families and Travellers (FFT)

Friends, Families and Travellers is a leading national charity that works to end racism and discrimination against Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people and to protect the right to pursue a nomadic way of life.

Media Contact

Communications Team

Email: [email protected]

 

Sign up to our Newsletter