Madonna Gives Gypsies the Gift of Gold... Heels
Oct. 13 2009, Published 4:45 a.m. ET
After speaking out about the widespread discrimination against East Europe's Gypsies, Roma, on her Sticky & Sweet tour, Madonna is taking a step towards a solution. The fashion icon decided to auction off a pair of her favorite gold Christian Dior heels on the Roma's behalf, Associated Press reports.
The autographed platform heels will be donated to a charity that supports Gypsy child education. The organizers of the event said Tuesday that they will be sold at the Ovidiu Rom annual ball later this month and guest of the ball will make donations to win raffle tickets for the auction.
- Madonna Supports Son Rocco by Visiting His Art Exhibit on 'Night Off' From World Tour: See the Sweet Family Photos
- Madonna Orders Judge to Dismiss Concertgoers' Lawsuit as She Feels Waking Up Early Isn't a Valid Reason to Sue
- Sandra Bernhard Reveals She Didn't Reach Out to Pal Madonna After Singer's Near-Death Experience: 'People Get Busy'
Madonna was booed at her concert in Bucharest in August when she said the discrimination against the Roma should end.
Leslie Hawke, president of Ovidiu Rom, said, "Madonna's very mild comment regarding equality shone a spotlight on a common European attitude toward Gypsies. We're thrilled to have her donation because she is such an icon of innovation and vigor and 'can do' spirit."
Other celebrities attending include Hawke's son, Ethan Hawke, and Vanessa Redgrave, who has donated a gold chain.