The National Association for the Advancement of Romani People (NAARP)

The National Association for the Advancement of Romani People (NAARP) is the only Romani-American civil rights organization in the world. Formed in 2008, its mission is "to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality in reference to the rights of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and discrimination." Its name, retained in accordance with tradition, uses the once common term gypsy people. The NAARP bestows the annual Image Awards for achievement in the arts and entertainment, and the annual Spingarn Medals for outstanding positive achievement of any kind, on deserving Romani Americans. It has its headquarters in Kitchener, Ontario.