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Moving On: The Gypsies and Travellers of Britain
Moving On The Gypsies and Travellers of Britain Author:Donald Kenrick, Colin Clark Gypsies arouse strong passions but there is growing interest in who they are, where they come from and how they have survived centuries of discrimination. This is the only general introduction to the struggle of Gypsies to survive as a people in Britain today. The illustrations show the reality of life now that caravans have replaced bender tent... more »s and vanda (horse drawn caravans). Gypsies are often 'moved on' by the police but a new generation hope for a better future. The title of the book is taken from a poem by a Gypsy girl studying for a law degree. A profile of the Gypsy community, their origin, how they work and where they live, including refugees from the Balkans, is followed by chapters on the Kal of Wales (who spoke pure Romani until recently), the Nawkens of Scotland and, more controversially, New (Age) Travellers. Finding sites is the key to survival but planning law often stop Gypsies from living in a caravan on their own land whilst fair and equal provision of health, education and social services is a challenge for teachers and health workers. But their efforts are not always appreciated. Quotations from children's' books and the media show how our racial attitudes towards Gypsies are created from an early age. Gypsies find it increasingly difficult to pursue their traditional way of life, suffer a lower life expectancy and higher infant mortality rate and have low rates of literacy. This illustrated pocket guide will help open minds as the Gypsies of Britain 'move on' into an uncertain future.« less