Romani Mexicans
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 15,850 | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Mexico City, Veracruz, San Luis Potosí | |
| Languages | |
| Mexican Spanish, minority speak Romani languages | |
| Religion | |
| Christianity (especially Roman Catholicism), Folk religion | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| other Romani diaspora |
There is a significant Roma population in Mexico, most being the descendants of previous migrants. According to data collected by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography, they numbered 15,850,[1] however, the total number is likely larger.[1] In Mexico, they are commonly known as gitanos or rom.
History
The first gypsy group in Mexico were the Spanish gitanos that arrived during the Colonial era.
Some of the mid-19th century migrants may have arrived to Mexico via Argentina.[2]
In the late 19th and early 20th century migrants from Hungary, Poland and Russia began arriving.[1] In 1931, after a substantial colony of these latter gypsies had settled, and following complaints of delinquency, the law was changed to prohibit further settlement in Mexico.[1]
Culture
In the mid 1900s, Romani caravans were known for showing movies in rural towns (cine ambulante, traveling cinema).
Today, their economic activities mainly revolve around the sale of textiles, cars, trucks and jewelry and also the teaching of singing and dancing.[1]
Notable individuals
- Alfonso Mejia-Arias - musician, writer and politician
See also
- La Lagunilla Market - popular with Romani merchants
References
- ^ a b c d e "Gitanos, o como ser invisibles en México" (in Spanish). Inter Press Service. Retrieved 26 May 2015.
- ^ "Mexico's misunderstood Gypsies live their own way". Houston Chronicle. Retrieved 26 November 2015.
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