Danish Traveller in Denmark

Introduction / History

The Danish Travellers, historically known as the Tatere, are an ethnic minority group in Denmark of nomadic or semi-nomadic heritage. The group grew out of itinerant populations that were historically involved in trades like metalworking, horse trading, basket making, peddling goods, and seasonal agricultural work. They have faced significant discrimination and exclusion, with attempts to force them to assimilate, including policies against 'vagrancy'. The old term Tatere is now held in disdain as being derogatory. Their language has been replaced by Danish.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Elements of their distinct culture include oral traditions and storytelling, family networks, and marriage within the group. Today most Danish Travellers have become settled, living quiet lives with some families maintaining connections to seasonal work.

What Are Their Beliefs?

They are nominally Christian, primarily affiliated with the Church of Denmark (Evangelical Lutheran). However, active participation in religion is very low throughout Denmark, and society there is very secular. In addition, although the church bears the name 'Evangelical', there is no documented evidence of evangelicalism in the modern sense amongst them.

What Are Their Needs?

Some of the challenges they face are related to stigma, social integration, and the preservation of cultural identity in modern Danish society with its emphasis on homogeneity.

Prayer Points

Pray that the existing church may experience deep revival and a return to biblical roots.
Pray that the Danish Travellers may come to Christ in repentance and genuine faith.
Pray that the existing church may become strong and begin to reach out to others in the secular society of Denmark and beyond, taking their place in world mission.

Text Source:   Joshua Project