Keti Koti/Kadena Kibrá

On 30 June, Eindhoven commemorates the history of slavery in the beautiful garden behind the Town Hall. Following the ceremony, a free musical gathering will take place at Muziekgebouw Eindhoven, co-organised by Comité 30 juni/1 juli. It promises to be a special evening, held in the spirit of Keti Koti/Kadena Kibrá.

Sankofa Sessions

Sankofa Sessions is an intimate musical journey that takes you from remembrance to hope. In the warm atmosphere of the Muziekgebouw Eindhoven foyer, this evening becomes a special moment of transition: from remembering to celebrating.

We follow the path of Sankofa — the African wisdom that teaches: “It is not wrong to go back for that which you have forgotten.” We return to who we were before slavery. We pause to acknowledge the suffering, honour the resistance, and feel the strength of our ancestors still living within us. And then… we move forward. Towards freedom. Towards joy. Towards the future.

Keti Koti/Kadena Kibrá

Each year on 30 June, the history of slavery is commemorated. The following day, on 1 July, marks the celebration of the abolition of slavery in 1863. In practice, however, many enslaved people were forced to continue working on plantations for up to ten more years, which is why 1873 is seen by many as the true end of slavery. The term Keti Koti (Sranantongo) or Kadena Kibrá (Papiamentu) means “Broken Chains.” These days include both commemorative ceremonies and festive activities, with music, dance, and traditional food. Keti Koti highlights the importance of awareness, reconciliation, and the celebration of cultural diversity, while honouring the ancestors who suffered under slavery.

Reserve your free tickets