Keti Koti: The Annual Remembrance and Celebration of the Abolition of Slavery

Keti Koti: The Annual Remembrance and Celebration of the Abolition of Slavery

Keti Koti is a yearly remembrance and celebration of the abolition of slavery in the former Dutch colonies of Suriname and the Dutch Antilles. The name Keti Koti means "chains broken" in the Surinamese language Sranantongo. The holiday is celebrated on July 1, the anniversary of the Emancipatiewet (Emancipation Act) of 1863, which officially abolished slavery in Suriname and the Dutch Antilles. Keti Koti is a time to remember the suffering of those who were enslaved and to celebrate the hard-won freedom that they achieved. It is also a time to reflect on the legacy of slavery and to work towards a more just and equitable society. The celebrations of Keti Koti are often colorful and festive, with parades, music, and dance. There are also educational events that teach about the history of slavery and its legacy. In recent years, Keti Koti has become increasingly popular in the Netherlands, where it is seen as an important part of the country's history and culture. How to Watc…