A Mysterious People: Czech and Slovak Roma

BCSA in cooperation with the Czech embassy London would like to invite you to a talk by Dr. Margaret Brearley A Mysterious People: The Origins, History and Culture of Czech and Slovak Roma. This event is closely following Holocaust Memorial Day on 27 January.

After outlining her own long experience of English Romany Gypsies, Dr. Brearley will discuss the origins and language of the Roma people, their arrival in Europe and subsequent persecution, and their specific history in Czech and Slovak lands until today.

Some unique features of Romani culture, traditions and law will be explored and the sources of anti-Gypsy stereotypes examined. Dr. Brearley's talk will aim to entertain, inform, and increase awareness of the complex difficulties faced by Roma, past and present, including during WWII.

Dr Margaret Brearley (MA. Oxon., Ph.D. Cantab.) has lectured on Judaism and Jewish- Christian Relations at the Selly Oak Colleges, and widely in Britain, Israel, USA and Europe. A Wroxton Holocaust Scholar, she has also been a consultant to several films and TV documentaries, and published many academic articles and book chapters, especially on anti- Judaism, the Holocaust, Richard Wagner, genocide and Roma/Gypsies.

Light refreshments will be served afterwards.

Date and time: Tuesday 10 February 2026, 6.30-8.30pm

Venue: Embassy of the Czech Republic (cinema)26-30 Kensington Palace Gardens, London W8 4QY Nearest tube station Notting Hill Gate

This event will take place in person and will also be recorded.

BCSA members enjoy free entry but registration is essential.

Non-members £10, full-time students £5.

Eventbrite fees will be added to the cost of your tickets at checkout.

All proceeds from this event will go to the BCSA School Support Fund established in 2004 to provide support for English language skills in Czech and Slovak schools and other educational institutions. More information about our fund, see https://www.bcsa.co.uk/school-support-fund/

MORE INFORMATION on www.bcsa.co.uk

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