THE HAGUE - Minister Mark Rutte, who has not been notably involved in the Caribbean regions of the Kingdom during his political career, shared a message today concerning the rehabilitation of Tula:
Tula, a Curaçaoan freedom fighter, suffered brutal torture and was unjustly murdered by Dutch authorities on October 3, 1795. His sole crime was his rebellion against the injustices perpetrated against enslaved people and his unwavering pursuit of freedom and equality.
On October 3rd, tomorrow, Tula will receive posthumous rehabilitation by the Dutch government in Curaçao. This long-overdue recognition pays homage to him in the manner he truly deserves. The rehabilitation follows the formal apologies made by the Dutch state regarding its historical role in the slave trade.
Today, I engaged in a video conference with Gibi Bacilio and Frank Quirindongo, who have been pivotal in raising awareness about the history of slavery and advocating for Tula's rehabilitation. This event marks a significant chapter in our Kingdom's history.