The Romani cry at parties

Because they know how to truly honor the heart

Snapshot from a video taken at a celebration with our tribe

In this picture you see, left to right: two cousins talking, while one of them is holding his daughter; Todorka, singing, while holding her niece, Tzetza, in an embrace. Tzetza, crying to the song currently playing; Tzetza’s little son standing next to her; Todorka’s son, with his back turned, sitting on the edge of the bench they’re all sharing and talking with cousins in front of him. In the background, more people from the tribe.

This was filmed at a celebration for a baby that was just born into the tribe. The room was packed full of people. In the 20-second video, which we will share with you below, you can see at least 30 people present.

Did Tzetza feel any shame about crying? Did she hide? Did anyone tell her she’s ruining the mood? Did anyone’s mood actually get ruined? Was any of this a big deal at all?

No, no, and no.

Because this is a Roma tribe. And the Romani know how to honor the heart.

A friend of ours was at a similar celebration with our tribe. He was surprised when a sad song started playing and the same people who were, until now, joking and dancing, were now quietly sobbing.

Later, we talked about crying in Roma culture, and he said, “In my home country, we would consider it weird if you’re at a party and you suddenly start crying.”

Pepi replied:

“In Roma culture, we would consider it weird if you suddenly drop dead from suppressed feelings.”