On May 5, 2025, the Netherlands celebrated Bevrijdingsdag (Liberation Day) with a series of events that not only marked the end of World War II in the country but also highlighted ongoing human rights issues. This year, the theme resonated through various activities, including a campaign by Amnesty International advocating for the release of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu, a Nigerian singer sentenced to death for allegedly insulting the Prophet Mohammed in a song.
Throughout the country, Amnesty groups mobilized, collecting over six thousand signatures on petitions demanding justice for Sharif-Aminu. Local volunteers set up stands at 17 different Bevrijdingsfestivals, including cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Gouda, engaging the public in discussions about human rights and encouraging them to take action.
One of the standout attractions at these festivals was a life-sized version of "Human Rights Jenga," where participants learned about the delicate balance of rights that protect individual freedoms. The game involved pulling blocks labeled with various rights, such as "freedom of expression" and "right to asylum," illustrating how the removal of one right can jeopardize the entire structure of human rights. This interactive activity sparked conversations among festival-goers, prompting them to reflect on the importance of these rights in their daily lives.
In Gouda, the festival featured a poignant film screening of "Home Game," which explores themes of freedom and human rights. Hein Pierhagen, the chair of the local Amnesty group, noted the film's emotional impact on the audience. "When the lights came on after the screening, I saw that the audience was deeply moved by the film. It serves as a mirror to the current political climate in the Netherlands and many other countries worldwide," he remarked. The film is currently being shown in sixteen theaters across the Netherlands, making its message accessible to a broader audience.
The atmosphere at the Bevrijdingsfestival was electric, with music performances, including a notable appearance by the choir Eigenwijs, and various human rights games designed to engage attendees of all ages. In addition to the fun, these activities served as a reminder of the importance of activism and awareness in the fight for justice.
Meanwhile, in Leiden, the author of this report experienced the excitement of the Bevrijdingsfestival firsthand. Despite facing technical difficulties that resulted in lost footage of the band O Nine, the author managed to capture numerous photos of the performance, documenting the vibrant atmosphere of the event. "I went home to walk the dog and secure the cameras before heading back for Robert van Hemert's performance," the author explained, highlighting the hustle and bustle of the day.
As the day drew to a close, the board members of Stichting Bevrijding Leiden (Liberation Leiden Foundation) reflected on the success of the events. They expressed their satisfaction with the turnout and the positive response from the community, despite the exhaustion that followed a long day of activities.
In addition to the Bevrijdingsdag celebrations, the author is also gearing up to cover the upcoming Leiden Marathon, which adds another layer of excitement to an already busy weekend. The marathon is expected to draw large crowds and showcase the city's vibrant spirit.
Overall, Bevrijdingsdag 2025 not only commemorated the historical significance of liberation but also served as a platform for advocating human rights, reminding everyone that the fight for freedom continues. The collaboration between local communities, activists, and organizations like Amnesty International illustrates the power of collective action in addressing pressing issues. With engaging activities and heartfelt discussions, the day was a testament to the enduring spirit of liberation and the ongoing struggle for justice in our world.
