Contesting Stereotypes through Self-Representation? A Review of the Romani Exhibition Stands at
the 2019 Frankfurt Book Fair
Contesting Stereotypes through Self-Representation? A Review of the Romani Exhibition Stands at
the 2019 Frankfurt Book Fair
Author(s): Laura Soréna TittelSubject(s): Studies of Literature, Politics and society, Inter-Ethnic Relations, Ethnic Minorities Studies, Identity of Collectives
Published by: Romani Studies Program Central European University
Keywords: Diversity; Essentialism; Frankfurt Book Fair; Identity politics; Romani literature; Visibility;
Summary/Abstract: Romani literature was exhibited at the Frankfurt Book Fair at specific stands and events for the first time in 2019. This article reviews the presented literature and authors and discusses advantages and disadvantages of establishing the category“Romani literature” within the context of the Frankfurt BookFair. It argues that the category provides a new platform for Romani authors as well as for Romani identity politics and was set up with the aim to fight existing racism against Roma. Making oneself visible as a diverse minority at such an event can help to break up stereotypes and constitutes a success after centuries of under representation. At the same time, the article uncovers the danger of feeding into essentialism through the label “Romani literature” and reflects on the limitations of emancipatory politics when participating in a predominantly commercial event.
Journal: Critical Romani Studies
- Issue Year: 3/2020
- Issue No: 2
- Page Range: 96-103
- Page Count: 8
- Language: English
