Council’s work with young Traveller community goes on display

‘Wherever the Road Takes Me’ is on display at The People’s History Museum in Manchester as part of their community programme which explores the stories of people whose life has been shaped by migration.

The exhibition presents work created by young people from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities in Rochdale and gives them a voice to challenge stereotypes and share expressions of their identities. It features a short film created by Gypsy Traveller young people and illustrated short stories by Roma children from across Rochdale, alongside staff from Rochdale Borough Council’s school equalities team, M6 Theatre Company and Cartwheel Arts.

Through interviews, photographs and artwork, the project presents personal insight into what is culturally important to Gypsy, Roma and Traveller young people, in Rochdale and beyond.

Councillor Rachel Massey, cabinet member for children’s services and education at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “It is an incredible achievement for our young people, and our school equalities team, to have such a magnificent display in the heart of Manchester celebrating people’s history. ‘Wherever the Road Takes Me’ and the wider migration exhibition takes on even more significance in light of the devastating scenes we’re seeing in Ukraine.

“I’d really encourage people to come and view the exhibition, not only is there some fantastic artwork from young people on display but it also reflects how welcoming Rochdale is and shows how we are a vibrant and diverse community. We should all celebrate that.” 

A short film called ‘Wherever the Road Takes Me’ plays continuously in the exhibition. It follows six proud young Travellers and their individual stories as they explore stereotypes and celebrate their heritage. Copies of a book that seven young Roma pupils created, called ‘Hear My Voice’, are also on display. 

The exhibition has provided an opportunity for Roma children to exhibit their work, showcase their creativity and demonstrate their storytelling skills. Photographs of traditional Gypsy, Roma and Traveller items and families also form part of the informative display.

Sofie Minarikova, whose artwork is part of the ‘Hear My Voice’ book on display, said: “I think it’s really cool to have my work on display in a museum in Manchester. It was a great experience to be part of creating this work and giving a voice to the Roma Traveller community. I’m really proud of the part I’ve played in this and I really hope people come and view our work and take something away from it that challenges the stereotypes our community often faces.”

Gypsies, Roma and Travellers have a combined migration history of over a millennium.  Fiercely proud of their heritage, these communities ensure that the legacy of their culture is passed on to future generations through art, music and storytelling.

Councillor Massey continued: “Storytelling forms the cornerstone of Roma culture. This fabulous project offered local pupils an opportunity to explore their creativity and to ensure that their voices are heard in Rochdale, entwining their narratives into the rich cultural heritage of Roma storytelling, it’s something the whole borough should be proud of.”

The exhibition can be viewed Wednesday to Sunday 10am – 4pm till Sunday 5 June 2022 at The People’s History Museum, Left Bank, Manchester, M3 3ER.

The exhibition is free but donations to support the work of the museum are welcome. More information on the exhibition can be found on the museum’s website phm.org.uk/exhibitions/wherever-the-road-takes-me/