Leiden apologizes for its role in the Netherlands' history of enslavement

Leiden Mayor Peter Heijkoop has issued an apology for the city government’s historical involvement in the colonial system. He described it as "a system that enabled horrific acts such as land seizure, loss of freedom, exploitation, oppression, dehumanization, human trafficking, and slavery," speaking on Tuesday evening.

Heijkoop acknowledged the suffering caused by slavery, addressing his apology to the descendants of enslaved people and Indigenous communities. "We also extend our apologies to all who still live with the consequences of the reprehensible words, decisions, and actions of the Leiden city government, which were part of and contributed to the system of slavery and colonialism."

Earlier this year, historical research by Leiden University revealed that Leiden and its citizens were “deeply and routinely” involved in colonialism and slavery.

Heijkoop concluded his speech by saying, "We recognize the past, take responsibility for the present, and work together toward a future where everyone is equal and able to participate in our city." A minute of silence followed.

At the ceremony, Jacintha Groen-Stewart, a descendant of Afro-Surinamese enslaved people, spoke about her efforts over the years to raise awareness of Leiden’s colonial history.

Mayor Heijkoop thanked her for her persistence, noting, "It is largely thanks to her that the city government decided to examine our past." Groen-Stewart described the apology as the culmination of a long journey and an emotional moment. On stage, she felt the presence of her ancestors. "We stand on their shoulders."

Researchers Emma Sow and Sjoerd Ramakers presented their findings on Tuesday evening, highlighting, for instance, how Leiden merchants imported indigo from Haitian plantations to dye textiles. Over the 18th century, these plantations relied on the labor of more than 1 million enslaved people.

In addition, the Lakenhal, a historic cloth hall in Leiden where textiles were traded and produced, was used to make uniforms for the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army (KNIL), showing another way in which Leideners “helped sustain the colonial system.”