Keti Koti, which means ‘Broken Chains’ in Surinamese, is an annual celebration of the abolition of slavery in the former Dutch colony of Suriname on July 1st. This day not only commemorates the end of the enslavement of African people in Suriname, but also celebrates their freedom and resilience. In the Netherlands, where many Surinamese people now reside, Keti Koti is also marked as an important day of remembrance. Let’s take a closer look at the history and significance of Keti Koti.
The History of Keti Koti
Slavery was a dark part of Suriname’s history, with the Dutch shipping tens of thousands of enslaved Africans to the colony between the 17th and 19th centuries. However, on July 1st, 1863, slavery was officially abolished in Suriname by the Netherlands. While this may seem like a cause for celebration, it came with many stipulations. Enslaved people were forced to work for a further ten years without pay, and were still subjected to harsh living conditions.
It wasn’t until 1873, after a long and arduous fight by the Surinamese people, that the ten-year period was abolished and they were truly set free. This day, July 1st, became known as Keti Koti, and has been celebrated ever since as a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and freedom.
The Meaning of the Kwakoe Festival
In Suriname, Keti Koti is celebrated with the Kwakoe Festival. This festival, which originated in 1975, is a 6-week long celebration of Surinamese traditions, food, music, and culture. It brings people of all ages, races, and backgrounds together to commemorate Keti Koti and celebrate Surinamese identity.
The Kwakoe Festival is named after Kwakoe, a powerful leader from Ghana who was among the first enslaved Africans to arrive in Suriname. His legacy and spirit are honored during the festival with performances, exhibitions, and parades, all while showcasing Surinamese culture and promoting unity.
Remembering the Past, Looking Towards the Future
Keti Koti is a time to remember and honor the struggles and sacrifices made by those who came before us. It is also a time to reflect on the ongoing fight against racism and discrimination, and the importance of solidarity and equality.
In the Netherlands, Keti Koti is marked with a Remembrance Walk, where people gather to walk together in solemnity and remembrance. This event ends with a ceremony at the Oosterpark where a monument stands to honor the abolition of slavery. The celebration then continues with music, food, and festivities at the Kwakoe Festival.
Join the Celebration
Whether you’re of Surinamese heritage or not, Keti Koti is a meaningful and important celebration for all to take part in. It is a time to remember, to learn, and to celebrate freedom and resilience. So this July, join in on the observances, embrace Surinamese culture, and celebrate Keti Koti with joy and solidarity.
On July 1st, Keti Koti is celebrated as an important day of remembrance and freedom for Surinamese people. Slavery was officially abolished in Suriname, though it came with many stipulations and a prolonged fight for freedom. The Kwakoe Festival is a 6-week long celebration of Surinamese culture and identity, named after a powerful leader from Ghana. During Keti Koti, we remember the past and honor those who struggled and sacrificed for freedom and equality. The celebration of Keti Koti reminds us of the ongoing fight against racism and the importance of solidarity and unity. In the Netherlands, the Remembrance Walk and ceremony at the Oosterpark are followed by music, food, and festivities at the Kwakoe Festival. 
