POV Season 13 Episode 8 American Gypsy: A Stranger in Everybody's Land

American Gypsy: A Stranger in Everybody's Land is the eighth episode of season 13 of POV, a documentary series that presents an array of the best contemporary and classic documentary films. This episode follows the never-before-seen lives of three Romani families in the United States.

The episode explores the day-to-day life of Romani people and their unique culture. It delves into their history, their customs, and their struggles to integrate into American society. The episode also explores the negative stereotypes that are often associated with the Romani community and how they have impacted their lives.

Through intimate interviews and footage of their daily lives, the families share their experiences of being constantly on the move due to their nomadic culture, their struggles with employment, and their fears of deportation. The episode also covers the persecution and discrimination they have faced both in Europe and the United States.

One of the families featured in the episode is the Johns family, who live in a small community in West Virginia. The family talks about the challenges they face due to their identity and how they have always been seen as outsiders in their own country. They describe how in some areas even their own white neighbors refuse to accept them.

Another family featured in the episode is the Pucks, who live in North Carolina. The Puck family is unique because they have lived in the United States for generations and are not as nomadic as other Romani families. They share their experiences of trying to maintain their culture in a hostile environment and their struggles to educate their children while navigating the American school system.

Lastly, the episode introduces the Hughes family, who lives in California. The Hughes’ share their story of how they became homeless and how difficult it is for them to find employment because of their criminal records.

Overall, the episode provides a rare glimpse into the lives of Romani families in America. It highlights the challenges they face in trying to integrate into a society that doesn't understand or accept their culture. The episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural diversity and acceptance and the consequences of discrimination and persecution. It calls for an end to the stigma and negative stereotypes associated with the Romani community and a better understanding of their rich history and culture.