WILLEMSTAD – On Saturday, February 21, in observance of International Mother Language Day, the Community Center of Boka Samí became the setting for a remarkable moment of linguistic recognition. The presentation of the thesis “Papiá di Boka Samí” by linguist Mazarella Jansen, MEd, drew a full house.
What made the turnout even more striking was the context. At exactly the same hour — in the heart of Curaçao at the Antoine Maduro Stadium, a live football match was being played. The cheers from the game were broadcast widely across the island.
Yet more than 200 people chose to attend the lecture instead.
That detail speaks volumes.
Special congratulations go to organizer and initiative leader, Marlon Regales, presenter of the patriotic radio program “Patriótiko” on Radio New Ding, broadcast every Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. His consistent dedication to cultural awareness and community dialogue was clearly reflected in the success of this event. This was a true grassroots initiative — built on conviction, not convenience.
Language as Heritage
Jansen presented her in-depth study of the characteristic speech patterns of the Samineros — the people of Boka Samí. Her research focuses on the documentation, analysis, and appreciation of this local language variant within the broader Papiamentu language.
The objective is clear: to preserve and strengthen local linguistic identity, so traditional knowledge does not disappear over time.
The atmosphere in the hall went beyond intellectual interest. It was recognition. Elder residents nodded at familiar expressions. Younger generations listened attentively to words that form part of their roots.
Documentary Bridging Generations
The evening opened with a screening of the documentary “For di kuna di Piskadó” by Corry van Heijningen, filmed 42 years ago about the culture of Boka Samí and Samí Sail.
Images of fishermen, women by the shore, and daily life shaped by the sea stirred visible emotion. The film bridged past and present — memory and continuity.
A Meaningful Statement
Holding the event on International Mother Language Day gave it symbolic weight. While the world speaks about linguistic diversity, Boka Samí demonstrated what that looks like in practice.
When a major live football match is happening in the heart of Curaçao — and still more than 200 people fill a hall to celebrate their language — something meaningful is taking place.
The full house said it all. Not only about interest. But about commitment.