European Citizen’s Prize for Matthäus Weiß, the Chairman of the Association of German Sinti and Roma in Schleswig-Holstein

Matthäus Weiß, the regional chairman of Verband Deutscher Sinti und Roma in Schleswig-Holstein is one of four German winners of this year’s European Citizen’s Prize. Since 2008, the European Parliament has awarded this prize every year to projects and initiatives that facilitate cross-border cooperation or promote mutual understanding within the EU. The prize, which has symbolic value, is also intended to honour the work of those who promote European values through their daily work.

It is a great honour for FUEN that the chairman of Verband Deutscher Sinti und Roma in Schleswig-Holstein, who is also the Vice Chairman of the FUEN Member Organisation the Central Council of German Sinti and Roma, received the award at this year’s ceremony on 24 September at the European House in Berlin.

The Association of German Sinti and Roma in Schleswig-Holstein with its chairman Matthäus Weiß has achieved a stronger integration of Sinti and Roma in Schleswig-Holstein through outstanding commitment. This was attained by numerous culture and education projects, which contributed to a better mutual understanding. The regional association and its chairman also work closely together with the Danish minority in Schleswig, the German minority in southern Denmark and the Frisian ethnic group.

Matthäus Weiß said in his acceptance speech that this is a recognition not only for himself but also for his whole community. The regional chairman of the Association of German Sinti and Roma mentioned that he wouldn’t like to live in a world where people are discriminated, persecuted or locked away because of the tone of their skin or the language they speak, and that no one should live in such a world. According to Mr. Weiß, we have to trust each other and speak openly, because change can only be achieved if we work together.

FUEN congratulates Mr. Weiß and the Association of German Sinti and Roma in Schleswig-Holstein for the prize.