So here it is. My last day in the Czech Republic. As always with traveling

Earlier this week another fire bombing occurred in the Czech Republic against a Roma family.

The Holocaust. That simple word is one of the main reasons I chose human rights

What a busy few weeks! The quilt is starting to shape up as the women

The education of Roma children in the Czech Republic for has been a major issue

In an event reminiscent of 2009’s attack in which a two year old girl suffered

I meet with the women of the small town of Mimoň and talk about their experiences as a Roma woman in the Czech Republic. By creating a quilt, we are hoping that the women will be able to display their culture in a positive light, to be used as a tool for inclusion rather than exclusion.

I react to my experiences at the 20th International Steering Committee Meeting of the Decade of Roma Inclusion. It was eye opening and reaffirmed by belief that true action is lacking in the Czech Republic in regards to issues facing the Roma community.

In anticipation of the upcoming closing of the Czech Presidency of the Decade of Roma Inclusion, I look at what has been done to further the rights of Roma in the Czech Republic. Have these actions been effective? Or is it all just “mere rhetoric”?

This week I research the history of the Roma and give a brief summary of the migration into Europe and the Czech Republic.

My first meeting with Dženo leaves me excited and apprehensive. In my first week I am able to finalize a group to work with, a time frame, and a craftswoman to help with the quilt. Despite these successes, I can’t help but feel that more needs to be done.

My arrival in Prague and first look at the town I once lived in. The views are the same in Old Town, but the atmosphere is different. How am I to reconcile this new view I have with the work that is to be done? Well, it’s finally time to start!

I am leaving for Europe within the week…I arrive in Prague within the month. I am excited, nervous, and trying to be as calm as possible while learning as much as I can before I leave.