WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao continues to struggle with persistent social, cultural, economic, political and educational inequalities, according to the Asosiashon Promoshon Konsenshi Istóriko (APKI), which is preparing to commemorate Dia di Lucha pa Libertat on Monday, August 17.
The organization says these inequalities continue to manifest themselves in problems such as poverty. APKI also refers to what it calls “pobresa mental,” or mental poverty, arguing that greater historical knowledge and awareness are necessary to advance the broader emancipation of Curaçao society.
This year’s commemoration will focus particularly on leadership. APKI intends to draw a connection between the leaders of the 1795 slave revolt, including national hero Tula, and the leadership Curaçao has today, while also encouraging discussion about the kind of leadership the country will need in the future.
The central theme is “Pasado, Presente i Futuro” – Past, Present and Future.
According to APKI, understanding Curaçao’s history should not be limited to remembering events from the past. Historical awareness should also serve as an instrument for social development and contribute to the emancipation of the Curaçaoan community.
40 Years of Promoting Historical Awareness
The commemoration coincides with APKI’s 40th anniversary. The organization was established in 1986 and has spent four decades promoting greater awareness and understanding of Curaçao’s history.
Dia di Lucha pa Libertat commemorates the struggle for freedom associated with the major slave revolt that began on August 17, 1795, under the leadership of Tula and others.
This year’s event is being organized with support from the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports and the Committee for the Commemoration of the History of Slavery.
The gathering will take place Monday at Parke Lucha pa Libertat from 5:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
The official program begins at 7:00 p.m. and will include a spiritual reflection by Reverend Mariëlle van Waardenberg, the national anthem, poetry, dance, conversations with members of the public and a performance by Highway Band.
Through the commemoration, APKI hopes to encourage Curaçaoans not only to reflect on the struggle for freedom in 1795, but also to examine the social challenges that remain today and the leadership required to address them.