AMSTERDAM – The National Slavery Museum in the Netherlands is moving forward with its plans for an anticipated opening in 2030. The museum is now officially established under a foundation, with the Curaçaoan John Leerdam as the Executive Director and Franc Weerwind serving as Chair of the Supervisory Board. The museum will be located at the tip of Java Island in Amsterdam and will focus on educating and culturally addressing the Dutch history of slavery.
The foundation's creation and the appointment of its board members mark a crucial milestone in the museum’s development as a national and international site for remembrance and education.
John Leerdam will oversee the museum's day-to-day operations, while Franc Weerwind is supported by Bianca Tjon Atsoi and Matthias van Rossum, who will serve as board members. These experts bring valuable knowledge in culture, heritage, and governance, and will guide the museum as it moves toward its 2030 opening.
With the establishment of the foundation and the appointment of the board, the opening of the National Slavery Museum is now one step closer. Over the coming years, the museum is set to grow into a professional and sustainable institution, with its new leadership shaping its continued development.
Historic Location
The museum will open in 2030 at a historically significant site: the tip of Java Island in Amsterdam. This area, rich in history, will become an important space for reflection, education, and raising awareness about the Netherlands' role in the history of slavery. With the foundation's establishment and the appointment of the first board members, a strong foundation has been laid for the museum's ongoing development.