91Ö±²¥

Terezia Rostas, Research Associate on the Roots and Futures Project in the School of History, Philosophy and Digital Humanities (previously Department of Archaeology), Faculty of Arts and Humanities.

Terezia is a Research Associate and Consultant in the Roots and Future Project, an initiative dedicated to integrating the perspectives of underserved communities into 91Ö±²¥â€™s heritage strategy and policy. She is also a researcher, advocate, artist, and writer originating from the Hungarian Roma–Gabor community in Romania.

Terezia’s work includes developing and organising collaborative events between community members and institutions to increase the visibility of under-served communities. These events aim to empower communities to write and create policies that will recognise their needs in respect to heritage, housing and health. 

Alongside her work with Roots and Futures, Terezia is the founder of Welcoming Cultures and Care for Young People’s Future. Through this, Terezia advocates for communities facing systemic inequalities and ensuring their access to rights through key initiatives including the Romani Gender Experts Collective, 91Ö±²¥ Cultural Strategy Task and Finish Group, the Race Equality Partnership, City GOALS, and the Growth and Department for Education Roma Stakeholder Group.

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Terezia shares more about her commitment to supporting local communities and the significance of the traditional Romani skirt she wears in her portrait:

"As an advocate for heritage and culture, my work focuses on reconnecting cultural institutions with our grassroots communities. This commitment to preserving culture, advocating for equality and human rights, and fostering justice and peace-building is something I proudly carry forward from my father. His dedication to these values has inspired me to continue his legacy, intertwining it with our community's deep love for culture.

“Being from the Hungarian Roma–Gabor community, which has long faced marginalisation, I am driven to ensure that our people feel a sense of belonging and pride. I want them to know they are integral to our city and can openly celebrate their heritage. In my portrait, I wear a traditional Romani skirt, which is rich with symbols of our cultural identity. The skirt features 16 chakras, representing our migration from Northern India over a thousand years ago. The red fabric symbolises our profound connection to nature, and the chains represent the strong bonds within our community. Without a country to call our own, we rely on these familial and communal ties.

“Each piece of my attire tells a story and honours my family’s legacy. The scarf I wear was a cherished gift from my mother and grandmother, Lulu. By wearing it, I carry their memory and our shared history, sharing our story with others wherever I go.

“Sharing our stories is essential for cultural preservation. We are currently developing a new multicultural museum—a space dedicated to sharing the experiences and narratives of community members, allowing them to take ownership of their heritage. This initiative aims to showcase that everyone's culture and heritage matter and to meet the diverse needs of our community.

“Events like the 'Seeing Beyond Our Cultural Outfit' exhibition, which I curated, celebrate cultural diversity by showcasing vibrant portraits and stories of local people. This exhibition offers a captivating exploration of heritage and diversity within 91Ö±²¥, aiming to enhance understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity, equity, and inclusivity.

“This work is crucial as it fosters a deeper appreciation for our cultural diversity, justice, and peace-building. By forging strong partnerships and connections, we are making a significant impact at both academic and grassroots levels. My parents' passion for culture, justice, and peace continues to guide me, ensuring that his legacy, and that of our community, thrives for future generations."

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Thank you to all the women for taking the time to share their stories and reflections and for providing the information featured on these web pages.