Slavery Walk through Leiden

The Our HERitage team, along with some participants and partners, participated in a slavery history walk organized specifically for this project. The expertly guided tour was led by Britt van Duijvenvoorde, who took us to several key locations in Leiden that played a significant role in transatlantic slavery.

What was impressive about this walk was that the history of slavery in relation to Leiden wasn't entirely black and white. While some historical figures advocated reform (including abolition), the zeitgeist seemed unprepared for it. Furthermore, it emerged how religion was used both to justify slavery (the ecclesiastical interpretation of the curse of Ham) and to condemn it (based on Christian charity).

The city of Leiden thus symbolizes the inner struggle of Dutch society throughout the colonial period and how this ultimately led to emancipation. The participants also provided additional information during the walk. It was wonderful to see how people from different backgrounds felt connected to the topic.

The walk painfully revealed how deeply the history of slavery is interwoven with our environment. Not only in the archives, but also visibly in the streets, buildings, and remembrance culture of a city like Leiden. At the same time, it offered space for dialogue, reflection, and connection. Precisely what Our HERitage stands for.

For those who would also like to participate in Britt's walks through Leiden, you can register here: https://www.visitleiden.nl/nl/agenda/365095431/slavernij-wandeling-1