On the way to the Commemoration of the History of Slavery on July 1, 2026, the July 1 working group of the Public Entity Bonaire, in collaboration with local partner Mangazina di Rei, is organizing Emancipation Month throughout the entire month of June. With this, the month of June in Bonaire will feature a series of activities dedicated to themes such as freedom, self-respect, awareness, and cultural connectedness.
The month of June is not only dedicated to commemorating the abolition of slavery on July 1, 1863, but primarily also to the broader process of emancipation: the strengthening of rights, equal opportunities, and the ability to truly make use of these opportunities in our society today.
For this reason, the motto of Emancipation Month is:
Our past, our heritage
Our future, our work
The history of slavery remains an important component of our shared history and identity. By reflecting on this past and the impact it has on our present, room is created for awareness, dialogue, and further emancipation. At the same time, it offers an opportunity to collectively build a future where self-respect, connection, and equal opportunities are central.
With Emancipation Month, the Public Entity Bonaire, together with social and cultural organizations, wants to create space for encounters, dialogue, and reflection. Based on three central pillars of the Mangazina di Rei program – Marka (Mark), Remarká (Noticed/Re-examined), and Remarkabel (Remarkable) –, they are organizing various activities for the community of Bonaire during the month of June.
Marka is dedicated to creating awareness about the history and impact of the past of slavery and Bonairean heritage.
Remarká invites people to look at what happened with a different perspective, and what impact this still has today in our community.
Remarkabel focuses on growth and transformation: not just passing on pain and anger blindly to one another, but precisely sharing lessons, experiences, and strength to continue working together for a better future.
The activities are linked to the Action Agenda on the History of Slavery Bonaire (Agènda di Akshon Pasado di Sklabitut Boneiru) of the Public Entity Bonaire, which focuses on awareness, education, heritage, culture, and future-oriented restoration.
The calendar and more information about the activities can be found on the website of the Public Entity Bonaire: https://bonairegov.com/pa/luna-di-emansipashon. Keep an eye on this website and the Facebook page of the Public Entity Bonaire, as we will regularly provide updates on all activities during Emancipation Month over the coming days.
