Roma Children Explore Sliven’s Central Park

Sliven, Bulgaria: 7 October 2024

On a sunny autumn day, fourth-grade students from the segregated school of Bratya Miladinovi in Sliven set out to visit the city’s most popular park in the center of town. Though just a 10-minute walk, this journey felt both distant and unfamiliar for these children, as they had never ventured to this part of Sliven.

Teachers and the team from Foundation “For Hope” guided the students in a line, embarking on a joyful walk along a new street. Along the way, they stopped for a photo in front of a statue none of them recognized, capturing memories on their journey. The students’ excitement and curiosity brought fresh observations and discussions about their city.

When they arrived at the central city park, a lively hub where all major events in Sliven are held, it was a place completely new to them. None of the children had ever visited this green space, not because of physical distance but due to a symbolic barrier. For these Roma children, the city center may feel off-limits, and public spaces like this park, with its playgrounds, fitness areas, benches, and fountains, have remained out of reach.

Throughout the MARIO project, Foundation “For Hope” has sought to break down these invisible barriers, fostering desegregation and inclusivity in public spaces. Urban green spaces should serve all residents, not just those from the “right” background. Every child in Sliven deserves a safe, healthy environment, with equal access to these areas. Investing in green infrastructure has an immediate impact on fostering unity and combating territorial stigma. Thanks to MARIO, this important process has begun, with a vision for transforming vacant areas into inclusive, vibrant parks for all.