Eat along during Free Heri Heri For All

The trans-Atlantic slave trade lasted about 200 years and during this period millions of Africans were kidnapped from different African countries and taken to different countries in the West. The Netherlands was one of the largest slave traders and cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Middelburg took a significant role in this trade. On June 30, 1863, there was an announcement that enslaved people would be free from slavery the next day on July 1. In memory of July 1, 1863, we celebrate Keti Koti in the Netherlands.

However, it is important to know that on the plantations in Suriname slavery continued for 10 years because of a so-called state supervision that was instituted. So the enslaved were not really "free" and had to continue working on the plantations for another 10 years.

"For us, Free Heri Heri is about making connections and mobilizing communities to bring national attention to the commemoration of July 1, 1863. It is a movement for the people by the people".

 

- Chicken Republic (Ira & Ayra)

Heri Heri is a dish whose ingredients were part of what enslaved people were given to eat. Heri means "whole" a reference to whole fruits. Ground fruits were especially important because they were high in carbohydrates and easy to grow, from which a hearty, potent meal could be made. This allowed people to work long hours on the plantations. Today, Heri Heri is considered a delicacy and is often featured in celebrations or special occasions.

Created by Ira & Ayra Kip of Kip Republic, the Free Heri Heri For All initiative was born out of the need to make July 1, 1863/1873, a commemoration and celebration for all. To create awareness among all Dutch people about the existence of this day and its history and consequences that are still felt today.

Free Heri Heri For All has nationwide distribution points in several cities. Keep an eye on the website for the full list of locations where you can easily pick up a meal.

Want to learn more about the power of stories in food? Then check out our "Cooked history" training, which we developed with Ira & Ayra Kip. This training is available for free.