Srefidensi Dey The Hague at Amare

Programme in Amare

During the day, you can enjoy creative workshops, children's activities, live music, panel discussions and a vibrant cultural market. In the evening, we take you on an inspiring journey through theatre, dance, music, storytelling, spoken word, dialogue and celebration. A programme full of impressive performances and personal stories, focusing on pride, identity and future strength.

This programme reflects the 'alakondre' richness of Surinamese culture in all its diversity: from Indigenous peoples to Afro-Surinamese, Maroons, Hindustani, Javanese, Chinese and Boeroes. Together, we build bridges between generations, cultures and communities. From the heart of The Hague, we celebrate not only a historic milestone, but also the power of a shared past and the prospect of a connected future.

On 25 November 1975, Suriname officially gained independence from the Netherlands. Since then, this day has been commemorated as Srefidensi Dey, literally 'day of self-determination'. It marks the beginning of a new era for the Surinamese people and the start of a large migration flow to the Netherlands, with The Hague becoming an important home for many. Exactly 50 years later, we reflect on the journey, the stories and the pride that lives on in the Hague diaspora. And we do so together with culture, the Surinamese and Hague communities and powerful memories.

This programme is a collaboration between Amare, The Black Hague Experience and the Municipality of The Hague.