Integrating the Roma

Straddling the line between two cultures, Rodica Lunca attempts to facilitate understanding and mutual respect between her Roma community and their neighbours, writes Caroline O’Doherty.

RODICA LUNCA remembers the first time she cooked by barbecue at her suburban home. “My neighbour called the woo woo,” she smiles, spinning a finger in the air to indicate a siren. “I mean the fire brigade.”

Her meaning was already clear, but she takes no chances. Words are important in her line of work and she is careful to get them right.