Annual Commemoration of July 1 as Emancipation Day

In 2026, it will be exactly 163 years since (1863) slavery was abolished in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The ceremony was attended by the Acting Governor of Aruba, His Excellency Agustín Vrolijk, members of the Council of Ministers, members of Parliament, and representatives of various organizations. The morning began with a rendition of the Aruban national anthem by Jevione Besselink, followed by a series of cultural performances. Alydia Wever performed a dance and later sang Cunucu di Seit. The Thiel brothers presented a traditional tambu performance, while Pierangely Wever and Kevin Gumbs performed a dance presentation.

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Mike Eman called for the continued commemoration of the history of slavery as an essential part of Aruba’s national history. He also announced several initiatives aimed at preserving this history for future generations.

He emphasized that July 1 is a day to reflect on a painful chapter of the past while honoring the resilience and dignity of those who lived in slavery.

"Today, July 1, we pause to reflect on our history—a painful history. It is time to commemorate it and acknowledge that this painful chapter is part of who we are."

According to Prime Minister Eman, the commemoration is a tribute to the perseverance of people who, despite living under inhumane conditions, never lost hope.

"Thanks to their perseverance, their love for one another, and their desire for a better future, the day of freedom finally arrived."

Prime Minister Eman also expressed his appreciation to the National Archives of Aruba, the National Library of Aruba, UNESCO, UNOCA, and the many experts and researchers who have dedicated years to preserving the history of slavery.

"The books that had long remained hidden in the National Archives of Aruba, covered by the dust of time, have now been opened and made accessible to our entire community."

The Prime Minister also referred to the Capriles Charter of 1857, which was presented Tuesday evening during the opening of an exhibition organized by the National Library, the National Archives, and UNESCO. According to Eman, the document demonstrates that even before the abolition of slavery, there were Arubans who spoke out against abuse and injustice.

"The Capriles Charter shows that even during the era of slavery, there were people in Aruba who stood up for dignity and equality."

July 1 to Become an Annual National Day of Commemoration

One of the ceremony's most significant announcements was that the Council of Ministers has unanimously decided to officially commemorate July 1 every year in Aruba.

"Last week, the Council of Ministers unanimously decided that July 1 will become a national day of commemoration, observed annually as we reflect on this important moment in our history."

According to Eman, the decision confirms that the history of slavery and emancipation will hold a permanent place in Aruba's national memory.

New Home for the National Archives and an Emancipation Monument

The government is working on several initiatives to preserve the history of Aruba's colonial past. A permanent home for the National Archives of Aruba will be established in the former water reservoirs at Kibaima, where historical documents will be preserved for future generations.

In addition, the government will erect a monument commemorating emancipation, featuring a statue of a woman who stood against abuse and human rights violations. The monument will serve as a lasting symbol of courage, freedom, and respect for human dignity, reminding future generations that freedom, equality, and respect should never be taken for granted and must always be protected.

At the conclusion of his address, Prime Minister Eman warned that despite humanity's progress, the values of human dignity remain fragile if society fails to nurture and defend them.

"We often believe that humanity has left barbarism behind. Yet we see how easily humanity can fall back into the same dark chapters of history."

A Call to All Citizens

The Prime Minister concluded with an appeal to the people of Aruba.

"It is our responsibility to cultivate the values that make us human every single day. If we fail to cherish them, we can lose them far more easily than we think. It is our duty to continue walking the path of respect for human dignity and love for our fellow human beings."

The official ceremony concluded with speeches and cultural presentations, reaffirming the shared commitment to preserving the history of slavery and ensuring that this important chapter of Aruba's history is passed on to future generations.