While Keti Koti is a joyous occasion, it also serves as a time for reflection on the painful history of slavery and its lasting effects. Many use this day to promote understanding, equality, and reconciliation between different communities.
As the Netherlands continues to grapple with its colonial past, Keti Koti remains an essential reminder of the importance of freedom, human rights, and cultural diversity.
Reflection and Reconciliation
Ketikoti, sometimes spelled as Keti Koti, or officially Dag der Vrijheden is an annual celebration on 1 July that marks Emancipation Day in Suriname. The day is also known as Manspasi Dei or Prisiri Manspasi, meaning "Emancipation" or "Emancipation Festival". or Kettingsnijden. Keti Koti Groningen 2024: A Cultural Celebration of Emancipation
Keti Koti Groningen 2024 is a cultural program spanning June and July, commemorating the abolition of slavery. This collaborative effort involves civic initiatives, institutions, and the Municipality of Groningen.
Mayor Koen Schuiling and the City Council Address Groningen's Slavery Past
Mayor Koen Schuiling, on behalf of the College of Mayor and Aldermen, has officially apologized for the involvement of Groningen's past administrations in the trade of enslaved people. This apology was made in the presence of descendants of those affected.
The full speech and a recording of the livestream are available on their website: Groningen's Slavery Past.
Watch the Apology Speech
This significant step acknowledges Groningen's historical role in the slave trade and demonstrates the city's commitment to addressing its past and working towards reconciliation.
Keti Koti 2024 in Groningen: A Vibrant Celebration of Emancipation
Museum aan de A Hosts Family-Friendly Keti Koti Event on July 6, 2024
Groningen celebrates Keti Koti, commemorating the abolition of slavery, on Saturday, July 6, 2024, across three locations: Akerk, Noorderplantsoen, and Museum aan de A. The Museum aan de A offers a free program from 12:00 to 18:00, featuring storytelling, music, and cultural performances.
Event Highlights at Museum aan de A:
Anansi the Spider stories by master storyteller Wijnand Stomp
Talks by international writer Vamba Sherif and TV personality Nohaly
Spoken word performances by Cissy Joan and Vinny Johnson
African music by Basile Maneka
Dance performance by Juersson Hermanus
Presentation by artist Salustiano Martha on his artwork “Ubuntu”
Program Schedule:
The event runs from 12:00 to 18:00, featuring a diverse lineup of speakers, performers, and musicians. Highlights include:
12:00 - Artist Salustiano Martha
14:15 - Family show by Mr. Anansi (Wijnand Stomp)
15:00 - Interview with Nohaly, Rosie, and Julia
17:00 - Spoken Word by Vinny Johnson and music by Basile Maneka
Join Museum aan de A for this colorful event of freedom, culture, and diversity in Groningen!