The plenary hall of the Castelló City Council hosted the commemoration of International Romani Day yesterday, Wednesday, April 8. During the ceremony, a manifesto prepared by Romani collectives was read, and Gelem Gelem, the anthem representing the Romani people, was performed.

The event was presided over by the mayor of Castelló, Begoña Carrasco, accompanied by the Councillor for Interculturality, Vicent Sales. Prominent representatives of the Romani community were also present, including Paco Escudero Escudero, coordinator of the Fundación Secretariado Gitano in Castelló; Ana Giménez, president of the Fundación Punjab; Amparo Escudero Escudero, coordinator of the Asociación Gitana de Castellón de la Plana; and Alejandro Requena, president of the Asociación Cultural Flamenca Los Lunares de Castellón, along with several members of the municipal corporation.

In her speech, Mayor Carrasco emphasized the relevance of this date, highlighting that April 8 is a day of remembrance, recognition, vindication, and celebration. She underscored the contribution of the Romani people to Castelló society, recalling that they are an integral part of the history of Spain, the Valencian Community, and, of course, the history of Castelló, enriching it culturally and making it more diverse.

In the afternoon, the program continued with a series of commemorative and symbolic acts in the Traditional Games Park. The manifesto was read again, and the traditional River Ceremony took place, an emotional moment where petals are cast into the water as a sign of remembrance, respect, and homage to the Romani people. Afterward, the Romani anthem, Gelem Gelem, was performed again.

The day also included children's workshops and culminated with a musical performance by José Díaz “El Fosi” and Trabuquito. As an additional gesture, the City Council illuminated the Plaza Mayor fountain and the Fadrí with the red and green colors of the Romani flag, thus joining the commemoration.