The route takes in both well-known and lesser-known places for queer people: past the International Gay Monument – how did it come to be there, and what is the significance of its design? The Haagse Bos – what encounters took place there between men and boys? You’ll seek out the now-defunct bars and dance halls where gay men and lesbian women used to go out from the 1960s and 1970s onwards. Among other things, you’ll learn how they dealt with Section 248bis of the law, which prohibited sexual contact between adults (then aged 21 and over) and minors of the same sex.

You’ll also hear about the organisations set up specifically for queer women and men of colour. Forty years ago, they were already campaigning against racism and discrimination against the queer community. The tour naturally also highlights the struggle for emancipation that took place in and from The Hague.

As well as the stories from The Hague, the tour organisers would love to hear your stories too! You can share your story with the group and get to know the other participants as you walk.

The guides

Marieke Kroneman, lecturer and researcher in Sexuality and Diversity at The Hague University of Applied Sciences, and Oskar Oonk, a Master’s student in Urban and Architectural History at the University of Amsterdam and a queer storyteller.

Marieke delves into biographies, novels, literary history and art history in search of the stories of courageous women and queer figures from The Hague. “During the tour, I share the personal stories of people who have contributed to queer emancipation in The Hague.”

Oskar is a storyteller, urban designer and city historian. He focuses on unravelling the queer history of The Hague, with a particular emphasis on the queer nightlife scene of the 1960s and 1970s.

Good news!
The city walk is on a donation basis; this gives everyone the chance to join in. You donate what you can spare.