Romani, Vlax in Canada

Introduction / History

Vlax is one of the languages of the Romani people. It originated in southeastern Europe, but their ancestry goes back to India. Romani call themselves Rom, which in their language means "men." Rom is derived from the Indian word Dom, meaning "a man of low caste who gains his livelihood by singing and dancing." They could also be metal workers.

In India, they were discriminated against and excluded from the temples. Later, they were sent to Persia as minstrels. From there they were separated into two groups. One traveled northward around the 1000s and became the Romany-speaking European Romani. The other traveled southward and became known as the Domari or Middle Eastern Romani.

Vlax Romani speakers are mainly in southeastern European countries like Georgia, Kosovo and North Macedonia, but they also live all over Europe.

Some live in Canada. They came as refugees, starting in the 1990s. Others came in the 21st century.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Though they are known for their nomadic past, few keep to that lifestyle today. They depend on a variety of entrepreneurial skills for their livelihood. It is common for Romani to have two or more specialized occupations. This makes it easier for them to adapt to a changing society's needs.

Romani have long been known for their abilities as musicians, singers and dancers. They also hold a wide variety of other occupations. The men are skilled makers of sieves, drums, bird cages and reed mats. Romani marriages usually take place between couples in their teens, a practice that will undermine their efforts to advance in Canada.

What Are Their Beliefs?

In Canada, the Vlax Romani are mostly Christian. They tend to adopt the religion of the local people wherever they live. Some also believe ghosts, lizards and snakes are capable of harming humans and that people have the power to curse others by giving them the "evil eye." In Canada, many have come to true repentance in Christ, and they are following him.

What Are Their Needs?

Like most Romani peoples, the Vlax need acceptance. Many need to learn modern job skills that will help propel them forward in the 21st century.

Prayer Points

Pray for those who adhere to Christianity will put Jesus first, high above any traditional beliefs.
Pray for Vlax Romani disciples to make more disciples affecting every family.
Pray for their physical and spiritual needs to be met.
Pray Vlax Romani disciples will take the name of Christ to the lost in Canada.

Text Source:   Joshua Project