Royal Family joins thousands applauding healthcare workers, first responders
The Dutch Royal Family were among thousands in standing on their balconies, at their windows, and on the streets to show their support for the country's healthcare workers and first responders. The initiative was organized on social media, inspired by people paying homage to their aid workers in Italy and Spain.
"Tonight, we applaud with thanks and respect for all the healthcare workers in the Netherlands who shield us from the awful coronavirus," King Willem-Alexander said in a short video message. He was joined by Queen Maxima and their children, Princesses Ariane, Alexia and Amalia, who clapped small cymbals against each other.
Applaus van Koning Willem-Alexander, Koningin Máxima en de Prinsessen Amalia, Alexia en Ariane voor alle zorgmedewerkers, om hen een hart onder de riem te steken in hun strijd tegen het coronavirus en hun inzet voor de gezondheid van iedereen in Nederland. #applausvoordezorg pic.twitter.com/M1gVBmH22e
— Koninklijk Huis (@koninklijkhuis) March 17, 2020
On De Wittenkade in Amsterdam West many people could be heard cheering and whistling from their own homes, said Amit Karki. "I was emotional in that moment," Karki told NL Times.
"I have great respect and I salute to all doctors, nurses, and medical staff who keep the Netherlands going."
"The nurses, the doctors, the orderlies, the social workers, the people who work in the supermarkets and all other people with vital professions are doing a fantastic job. It is nice to see that the Netherlands supports them en masse," said Prime Minister Mark Rutte.
Meanwhile in The Netherlands… 👏#klappen #klapcoronadewerelduit #corona pic.twitter.com/TDm4M57DoV
— Bas van der Ploeg (@basvanderploeg) March 17, 2020
We respect all out hero’s pic.twitter.com/us3YEDYLXi
— Amit Karki (@hancyameet) March 17, 2020
"They literally fight for our lives and our society. This is worthy of big and loud applause," and our support and encouragement, the event organizers said.
Overtoom klapt voor de zorgmedewerkers. Bedankt voor alles ❤ pic.twitter.com/to3udtyoA2
— Esmee (@Es_meee) March 17, 2020
The Dutch do love their fireworks 💥 #klapcoronadewerelduit 👏🏻 👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/QOaptF0i7p
— Chelsea 🌱 (@ChelseaHobbis) March 17, 2020
Kippenvel momentje. pic.twitter.com/0u4Lnecj2u
— Salwa van der Gaag (@SalwavanderGaag) March 17, 2020
Klappen, vuurwerk, toeteren in Groningen met slecht uitzicht en inzoomen op het umcg #klapcoronadewerelduit pic.twitter.com/2oEuh1FSvh
— Erwin Weydemuller (@_Weydie_) March 17, 2020