Yesterday, Minister Plenipotentiary Arrindell attended the National Commemoration of the Dutch Slavery Past at the National Slavery Monument in Amsterdam’s Oosterpark. The annual ceremony provides an opportunity to reflect on one of the darkest chapters in the shared history of the Kingdom, while honouring the lives, resilience and legacy of those who endured slavery.
Held on Keti Koti, the day marking the abolition of slavery in Suriname and the former Dutch Caribbean colonies on 1 July 1863, the commemoration serves as a moment of remembrance and renewed commitment. While emancipation was legally declared in 1863, many formerly enslaved people were required to continue working under state supervision for another ten years, making true freedom a gradual and painful process.
This year’s national commemoration is held under the theme “Schouder aan Schouder” (Shoulder to Shoulder), emphasizing unity, solidarity and the importance of continuing dialogue in building a more just and inclusive society. The ceremony includes speeches, moments of reflection and the laying of wreaths at the National Slavery Monument.
For Sint Maarten, remembrance on 1 July carries profound significance. The history of slavery has shaped generations and continues to influence communities throughout the Caribbean and the wider Kingdom. Recognising this shared history is essential to understanding the present and working collectively towards a future founded on dignity, equality and mutual respect.
Minister Arrindell emphasized that remembrance is not only about acknowledging the past, but also about accepting our shared responsibility for the future: “July 1, 1863 will forever remain a landmark date in our shared history, albeit remembered from very different perspectives. Clearly, we still have a long way to go.”
