"A new generation of Romani activists in the Czech Republic, of which Patrik Banga is a leading example, are criticizing their own people. They are getting a harsh reception and it is said they are doing Romani people more harm than good, but the opposite is true. ... If we continue to label the majority society as racist and the originators of the poor situation of Romani people, while closing ranks and not permitting critical voices inside our own community, this negative attitude on the part of the majority society will strengthen. Moreover, it will be completely justified in doing so.

We blame the media for creating an imaginary world that distorts Romani people in the eyes of the majority society, but in reality we do the same when we criticize Patrik Banga for his openness. We cannot permit something as inevitable and natural in a discussion as the capacity for detachment, self-reflection about our own community, and open communication with those outside it."

(debatewise.org)