Daniela de Rentiis knows the art scene in Italy. While her husband and children perform music throughout Europe, de Rentiis runs the Thèm Romanó Association, founded by the Rroma and Sinti in central Italy thirty years ago. Without providing any legal services or offering political programs, the Association exclusively engages in projects of an artistic and educational nature, and de Rentiis proudly highlights International Art Competition “Amico Rom” opened for artists and researchers from all over the world.
As part of the competition we accept all works of art – essays, poetry, paintings, sculptures, music as well as works related to the study of Rromani history and languages.
This year, Thèm Romanó is preparing the 27th Competition for both Rroma and non-Rroma to enter, and the selection of works is made by an international jury. De Rentiis believes that in this way, the competitors and participants share their experience upon returning to their country, but also become ambassadors of the Rromani culture.
Rromani language is a very sensitive topic in Italy. Although used on a daily basis, it is used only among family members, in their homes, since Rromani language is not an optional school subject. For many years the Association has been working with the Ministry of Education to introduce the subject of Rromani history and culture into the school curriculum.
The process of standardization of the Rromani language began some forty years ago, but it had all started in 1972 at the first World Rromani Congress. But you know how it goes, one Rroma, one opinion, two Rroma, two opinions, three Rroma, three opinions, so we need time not only to standardize the language, but also to develop mechanisms for its preservation, because the Rroma have a rich oral tradition, and much of the written tradition has not been preserved.
It is also one of the tasks of the “Amico Roma”, de Rentiis explains. She added that there was no Italian – Rromani dictionary in Italy explaining that the time had not yet come for it and that joint efforts were needed in order to provide the conditions for publishing one.
Italians do not know much about the Rroma or Rromani culture other than the classic prejudices that prevail in society. That is why I do not consider Salvini and his statements about the Rroma to be the biggest problem, but the people who believe his lies because they themselves do not know anything about the people they live with. Salvini offers entertainment and a show and that is the most dangerous thing.
When it comes to women’s emancipation, de Rentiis believes that most women are successfully integrated into society and find themselves equally in the role of mother, daughter and entrepreneur.
The situation is not the same in Rome or Naples, but I believe that perceptions and environment are changing. My two daughters are musicians and active citizens of society as much as my son. My children are independent people, and when we discuss something together, it feels like a small parliament is sitting in my living room.
When asked about the tasks sharing at Thèm Romanó Association, de Rentiis states that her husband is the President of the Association, but Spinelli, who happened to be nearby, adds that Daniela is the general manager because she is a people person and people love her.
I have two surnames, and in everyday situations I do not mention whose wife I am, because it does not matter. When I mention this, it is not a matter of subjugation, but of possibility, de Rentiis states, showing me her personal documents stating both surnames.
This is not common in Italy, mostly women keep their premarital surnames, but I have chosen to attach my husband’s surname to my own. At the same time, I am the wife of Santino Spinelli but also Daniela de Rentiis. I want the same for my daughters.
