BEIJING, October 13 (Xinhuanet) -- Madonna has offered one of her favorite pairs of Christian Dior shoes to a charity which supports Gypsy child education. The skyscraper gold heels, which are autographed by Madonna, will be sold at the Ovidiu Rom annual ball later this month.

    During an August concert in Bucharest on her "Sticky & Sweet'" tour, Madonna drew international attention by saying discrimination against East Europe's Gypsies, also known as Roma, should end. However her statement drew displeasure from her fans who responded by booing the star.

    "Madonna's very mild comment regarding equality shone a spotlight on a common European attitude toward Gypsies," Leslie Hawke, president of Ovidiu Rom, told The Associated Press. "We're thrilled to have her donation because she is such an icon of innovation and vigor and 'can do' spirit."

    (Agencies)