Why Many Gypsies Hesitate to Share Their Heritage

“Will they think I’m going to steal from here?”

This is the question Chantelle, a 23-year-old Romany Gypsy from Bedfordshire, asked herself when starting a new job. Proud of her heritage but wary of stereotypes, she hesitated to reveal her background due to negative media portrayals of the Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller (GRT) community.

Chantelle’s experience is featured in Stacey Dooley’s BBC documentary, Growing Up Gypsy, which follows three young Romany women navigating daily life amid prejudice. Her story reflects a broader issue—many GRT individuals feel pressured to hide their identity to avoid discrimination.

The Fear of Discrimination in Everyday Life

Romany Gypsies are one of the UK’s ethnic minorities, yet misconceptions persist. Chantelle recalls how films often depict Gypsies as “the bad guys,” reinforcing harmful stereotypes.

Ebony, a 23-year-old beautician from Nottinghamshire, experienced this firsthand. A client once told her she avoided parking near a Gypsy area—unaware Ebony was Romany herself. “Little do you know,” Ebony thought, keeping her heritage hidden to avoid judgment.

Hiding Identity to Avoid Prejudice

Many in the GRT community face systemic bias. A 2021 YouGov poll by Friends, Families and Travellers (FFT) found that 22% of people would be uncomfortable employing a Gypsy or Traveller. Some, like Ebony, have concealed their background to secure jobs.

Even in education, GRT individuals face barriers. One contributor, a 26-year-old journalist, shared that her parents advised against ticking the GRT box on her university application, fearing it would hurt her chances. She filled it in anyway but understands why many hesitate.

Breaking Stereotypes Through Visibility

Despite challenges, some are reclaiming their identity. Chantelle, now a content creator with over 400,000 TikTok followers, educates viewers about Romany culture—from traditional dishes like bacon pudding to dispelling myths.

“It goes back in your generations, it’s in your blood,” she says, countering claims that living in a house makes someone “not a real Gypsy.”

Ebony, too, has found supportive workplaces and hopes the documentary helps reduce prejudice. “I don’t look at every non-traveller like you’re a bad person,” she says, urging others to do the same.

A Call for Greater Understanding

FFT reports that anti-GRT prejudice remains widespread and often unchallenged. Yet, as more GRT individuals share their stories, attitudes may shift.

Chantelle sums it up: “I know we get talked bad about, but I’m proud of it.”

For those in the GRT community, the choice to reveal their heritage remains deeply personal—but increasing visibility offers hope for a future where they won’t have to hide.

Growing Up Gypsy airs on BBC Three, highlighting the realities of being young and GRT in Britain today.