Dutch King Willem-Alexander apologized Saturday for the first time for the country's slavery past at an event to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the end of slavery in Dutch colonies. ManilaBulletin
"I apologize as your King and as part of the government," the King said in the Oosterpark in Amsterdam. "And these apologies are intensely experienced by me with heart and soul."
"Of all forms of lack of freedom, slavery is the most hurtful, the most degrading," the King added. "We carry with us the horror of the slavery past. The consequences can still be felt today in racism in our society." The King also mentioned the role of the royal family in slavery, which is under investigation since December last year. "But today, on this day of remembrance, I ask forgiveness for the clear failure to act in the face of this crime against humanity."
The words were received with loud cheers by the hundreds of people present, including Prime Minister Mark Rutte. In December 2022 Rutte apologized on behalf of the Dutch government for what was done to the enslaved people. Saturday marked the start of a commemorative year, as 150 years ago slavery came to an end in all Dutch colonies -- ten years after the official abolition of slavery in the Dutch Kingdom in 1863.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Dutch king apologizes for country’s role in slavery on 150th anniversary of abolitionDutch King Willem-Alexander apologized Saturday for his country’s role in slavery and asked for forgiveness in a historic speech greeted by cheers and whoops at an event to commemorate the anniversary of the abolition of slavery. | AP
Read more »
Dutch king apologizes for Netherlands’ historic role in slaveryDutch King Willem-Alexander on Saturday apologized for the Netherlands’ historic involvement in slavery and the effects that it still has today.
Read more »
Dutch curb chip equipment exports amid US pressureThe Dutch government announced new rules restricting exports of certain advanced semiconductor equipment, a move that comes amid U.S. pressure on its allies to curb sales of high-tech components to China. | Reuters
Read more »
Royal Blood: Full Episode 10 (June 30, 2023)Aired (June 30, 2023): The Royales' siblings Kristoff (Mikael Daez), Margaret (Rhian Ramos), and Beatrice (Lianne Valentin) decide that whoever succeeds in killing their father will be the CEO of the company. GMANetwork GMADrama Kapuso Watch the latest episodes of 'Royal Blood' weekdays, 8:50 PM on GMA Primetime, starring 'The Primetime King' Dingdong as Napoleon “Napoy” Terrazo Royales, Rhian Ramos, Megan Young, Mikael Daez, Dion Ignacio, Lianne Valentin, Rabiya Mateo with a special participation of Tirso Cruz III. Also in the cast are Arthur Solinap, Benjie Paras, Carmen Soriano, Ces Quesada, Andrew Schimmer, John Feir, Aidan Veneracion, James Graham, Princess Aliyah,
Read more »