Aruba advances slavery remembrance and research projects

ORANJESTAD — Aruba is participating in projects to acknowledge and commemorate the history of slavery and examine its present-day effects. In a letter sent to the Dutch House of Representatives on October 12, Dutch minister Pieter Heerma reported that the six Caribbean islands’ action plans have received funding and will run through the third quarter of 2029.

For Aruba, the letter states that National Archives employees will complete archival training this year. Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten are also collaborating on an academic programme examining slavery’s social, cultural, educational and intergenerational effects. The programme runs until the end of 2027.

Aruba has also nominated a member to the slavery remembrance committee for the first time. The letter does not confirm that the appointment has been completed.

Remaining application rounds for grants supporting community initiatives continue through 2028. A study is also examining whether July 1, Keti Koti, could become a national public holiday within the Kingdom. Results and the government’s response are expected in 2027; no decision to introduce the holiday has been made.