A petition signed by 35 organizations and over 150 individuals is urging parliamentary chairman Martin Bosma, a member of the far-right PVV, not to attend the annual slavery remembrance ceremony in Amsterdam on July 1. Traditionally, leaders of both parliamentary houses attend, but Bosma’s presence is seen as problematic due to his history of promoting what petitioners describe as an “explicit racist ideology” centered on white supremacy.

Bosma has been a vocal critic of the remembrance ceremonies and last year criticized the cabinet and king’s formal apology for the Dutch role in slavery. The petition argues that his attendance would disrespect those for whom the day holds significant meaning. Linda Nooitmeer, chairwoman of the organizing committee, has also requested Bosma to withdraw, but he has stated his intention to attend.

Amsterdam mayor Femke Halsema acknowledged the controversy but emphasized the importance of political representation at the ceremony. She urged not to politicize the event, noting that future parliamentary chairs will also be part of the ceremony regardless of their political affiliations.

The commemoration, known as Keti Koti, meaning “the chains are broken” in Surinamese, has been held annually since 2002 to honor the abolition of slavery in Suriname and the Dutch Antilles on July 1, 1863. However, slaves in Suriname were only fully freed in 1873 after a mandatory 10-year transition period, during which owners received compensation for each enslaved person released.

At its peak in the 1770s, slavery contributed over 10% to Holland’s GDP, with income generated from the tobacco trade, sugar processing, and shipbuilding, all heavily reliant on slave labor. This historical context underscores the deep significance of the Keti Koti ceremony and the sensitivity surrounding the presence of political figures with controversial views on race and history.