NRADO was created in the hopes to provide a solution to a growing problem.  The Romani are a private people, and for fear of persecution they do not allow outsiders nor do they like to share information to them.  Therefore, it has left a wide open door for people to:

• use the name Gypsy to promote their business  or concepts
• make a name for themselves there they have otherwise failed to do so in a saturated market
• make assumptions or post false information
• make stuff up

There is very little accurate information available, and even those who have information the claim comes from credible sources are often wrong.  So how does one know what is true and what isn't?  That was the idea behind NRADOs concept.

NRADO Is made up of several educators, activists, writers and supporters who are actively involved in politics, the educational system and in worldwide organizations as representatives of the culture. The information we provide here has been thoroughly researched, debated and discussed therefore it will be the most accurate you will find anywhere else on the internet today.

NRADO was founded in Manheim, Germany, but  the website, scholarship, educational resources and sponsorships are handled by volunteers and members in the US where it is considered an unincorporated association.   Its 501(c)(3) application is currently being processed. 

For now, it is privately funded by members and businesses.

NRADO IS SPONSORED BY THE FOLLOWING:

Bamberger and Kreutz Family
Ian Hancock
Lachichai Foundation

If you would like to donate to keeping this site running you may do so below, or shop at Island Gypsy Boutique (the Gypsy Connection) which is a registered US business who donates 30% of the proceeds to NRADO and 30% to the Scholarship.  Thank  you for your support!
 

ABOUT THE ROMANI PEOPLE

The Romani, otherwise known as Gypsies, are often misunderstood or portrayed inaccurately or in a negative light.  The misuse of the term Gypsy or using it in a way that is considered offensive, is common especially in the media.  NRADO is comprised of well known Romani educators, activists, authors, legal professionals, and lecturers who assist in researching offenses and responding to offenders.  NRADO also as designated representatives in your area who are available to the public to provide accurate information about the culture to those who might reference it.  To find out where your nearest NRADO representative is go to the REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES link on the left.

WHAT TYPES OF OFFENSES DO YOU RESPOND TO?

One of the most comment offenses is common racist remarks by hate groups.  But even more common than that is everyday media and web activity depicting the Romani in a false or negative light. Hollywood often portray Gypsies in a way that is contrary to the cultural beliefs and in often cases, completely offensive to the culture.  The misuse of the terminology is often observed.  Often people simply do not  understand that the Romani people are in fact a minority hence the term, Gypsy denotes a worldwide ethnic group, NOT a way of life!

Finally there are people representing themselves as Romani.  NRADO does make contact and will verify ethnic claims to the heritage called into question.  If you know someone or are dealing with someone who is claiming to  be Gypsy, contact us and we can investigate it for you.

HOW DOES NRADO RESPOND TO OFFENSES?

Through the careful monitoring by a  elected regional representatives as well as by volunteer submissions to this website, members of NRADO quickly identify discriminatory behavior and spring into action.  Once an offense has been identified, a warning letter is sent out to the offender requesting compliance. If the offender does not comply, they are added to the black list.  If they do comply, their name is moved to the FRIENDS OF NRADO list.

I RECEIVED NOTICE THAT A COMPLAINT WAS RECEIVED AGAINST ME.  WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?

If you have been notified by NRADO that a complaint has been received, it means that someone has reported that you or the company you represent has committed on offense against or as a representative of the Romani people.  In most cases, the offender does not know that what they did is offensive.   We simply ask that you take the time to read the letter we send you and explanation as to what was offensive, and respond that you understand and will comply to our recommendations.   You may also tell us your side at that time.  If we feel you are working with us, the complaint will be dropped.  If you choose to not respond, or we find your actions to violate the rights of the Romani people, you will be added to our blacklist which tells the public that we do not approve or do not support your actions or organization.

I WANT TO ADD SOMETHING TO MY SITE THAT EXPLAINS ABOUT THE ROMANI PEOPLE.  WHAT CAN I SAY?

 A suggestion would be to say something like this: "Gypsy is a worldwide ethnic group NOT a way of life.  The term was mistakenly given to a group of people forced out of India 1000 years ago who were thought to be Egyptian.  They are a highly persecuted race and they prefer to be called Romani.  They have their own flag and their own language.  For more information visit www.radoc.net, or www.nrado.com.
 
WHY WOULD ANYONE CARE WHAT YOU SAY?
NRADO is made up of active members of the Romani community.  Its members are well respected, educated and involved members who work actively with government funded organizations as well as other international causes.  Our members have worked with well known political and government officials as well as well known media and motion picture associations.  With a proven track record of Romani Rights efforts, we feel the opinion of our members are credible and a valued voice of the Romani people. 

I WOULD LIKE SOMEONE TO COME SPEAK ABOUT THE ROMANI PEOPLE.  WHO CAN I CALL?

We have many qualified NRADO members and supporters all over the country.  Contact us for someone in your area.