ORANJESTAD (AAN) – Aruba to Observe July 1 as Annual Emancipation Day after Prime Minister Mike Eman announced that the date will be commemorated annually following a unanimous decision by the Council of Ministers. The announcement was made during the government’s official ceremony marking the 162nd anniversary of emancipation at Renaissance Festival Plaza.
The commemorative event brought together Acting Governor Agustin Vrolijk, members of the Council of Ministers, parliamentarians, and representatives from various organizations. The ceremony featured Aruba’s national anthem performed by Jevione Besselink, along with cultural performances by Alydia Wever, the Thiel brothers, and dancers Pierangely Wever and Kevin Gumbs, celebrating Aruba’s cultural heritage.
During his address, Prime Minister Eman emphasized that July 1 serves as an opportunity to reflect on the painful history of slavery while honoring the resilience, dignity, and perseverance of those who endured it. He stressed the importance of preserving this history so future generations understand the sacrifices made in the struggle for freedom and equality.
Eman also recognized the contributions of the National Archives of Aruba, the National Library of Aruba, UNESCO, UNOCA, researchers, and historians who have worked to preserve historical records. He highlighted the 1857 Capriles Letter, recently presented during an exhibition organized by the National Library, National Archives, and UNESCO, as evidence that Arubans were already speaking out against injustice before the abolition of slavery.
A major announcement during the ceremony was the government’s decision to officially commemorate July 1 every year as a national day of remembrance in Aruba. According to Eman, this ensures that the history of slavery and emancipation will have a permanent place in the nation’s historical and cultural identity.
The Prime Minister also unveiled plans to strengthen the preservation of Aruba’s heritage through the construction of a permanent facility for the National Archives of Aruba at the Kibayma water tanks, where historical documents will be safeguarded for future generations. In addition, the government plans to erect a monument honoring a woman who fought against abuse and human rights violations, symbolizing courage, equality, and respect for human dignity.
Concluding his speech, Eman urged citizens to continue defending the values of freedom, dignity, and mutual respect, warning that these principles must be actively protected and passed on to future generations. The ceremony ended with additional speeches and cultural performances, reaffirming Aruba’s commitment to preserving the history and legacy of emancipation.
