THE HAGUE - One year after the official apologies from the Dutch government for the Netherlands' role in the history of slavery, State Secretary Van Huffelen reflects on the ongoing struggle against discrimination and racism experienced by Surinamese and Caribbean Dutch individuals.
During an appearance on the television program "Khalid & Sophie" last night, Van Huffelen discussed the challenges descendants of enslaved individuals face daily, such as discrimination in education and housing searches.
PVV
Outgoing Minister Robbert Dijkgraaf of Education, Culture, and Science emphasizes that apologies for the Netherlands' role in slavery cannot be undone.
"What has been said cannot be 'unsaid'," states Dijkgraaf. He is positive about his ministry's role in this area and the collaboration with the education ministries of Curaçao, Aruba, and Sint Maarten. According to Dijkgraaf, this collaboration has received an additional boost and is not dependent on the composition of the government.
Concerns have been expressed about this, given the likelihood of the PVV forming a government after their election victory. Geert Wilders' party has stated in its election program that the apologies should be retracted.
State Secretary Van Huffelen emphasized the need for reflection, healing, and action. According to her, there is substantial effort in the areas of education, increased research, and support for social initiatives to address these issues.
Van Huffelen expressed hope that this will be the last generation to face these problems.