Keti Koti 2021

Just one page in our history books described the Trans- Atlantic slave trade in which the Netherlands was involved. During our high school career talking about slavery wasn’t very common. We just went through the little section of the history books and that was it! As two youngsters, we didn’t doubt or question this little piece of information. 

Growing older we had easier access to information that gives more insight about our history. Diving deeper into our history, made us realize how much the Maroon community, played part in the abolishment of Slavery in Suriname.
Little side step here.  
The Maroons are descendants of Africans who were brought to Suriname through the slave trade. They liberated themselves from slavery and settled in the jungle. They built a new life along the rivers and maintained their African culture and lifestyle. 
Read more about these Maroon Communities
   
On every 1st of July, we celebrate and commemorate Keti Koti in Suriname and the Netherlands. Keti Koti stands for “ the chains are broken”. and the 1st of July 1863 marks the abolishment of Slavery. In Suriname Keti Koti is already a national day and we think the Netherlands should also make this day official.
The Black Archives, Funx and Nederland Wordt Beter, started a petition and with this petition, they demand the 1st of July to become a national holiday .
We think it's a good step forward. This way we create more awareness around the shared history of Suriname and the Netherlands.

Knowing your history just gives you more insight and understanding of why things are the way they are. We challenge you to also dive deeper with us.
Just take a break from scrolling down your Facebook and Instagram and start using Google, visit Rijksmuseum, Kwaku Festival to learn more about slave trade history and the Surinamese food & culture.

Ready to sign the petition? Click here https://www.nederlandwordtbeter.nl/1juli/

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