The Black Archives offers a rotating program of exhibitions that illuminate pivotal aspects of Black history, literature, and activism in the Netherlands. This page helps you understand the types of displays you can expect to find, from archival presentations to contemporary narratives. Plan your visit by exploring themes and past showcases presented in this unique cultural space.
Highlighting women and queer communities' fight for rights and recognition.
Discover 'Echoes of In*dependence,' a powerful exhibition in Amsterdam. This event commemorates slavery abolition, examining colonial legacies and their impact on gender and sexuality. Engage with panels and spoken word reflecting on contemporary struggles for human rights.
Exhibition Details
Explore diaspora, identity, and post-colonial themes in African literature.
Engage with Ama Ata Aidoo's debut novel, 'Our Sister Killjoy,' through readings and a guided discussion. This event offers a unique perspective on cultural identity and the legacy of colonialism, as part of the 'Between Pages' literary series.
Between Pages Event
Uncovering the lasting impact of Indian Ocean slavery.
This exhibition investigates the profound links between the Cape colony and Utrecht, shedding light on the history of slavery. Discover the enduring legacies of Indian Ocean slavery and its largely forgotten impact in the Netherlands, presented through diverse archival materials and compelling artworks.
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Explore language, memory, and cultural independence with artists Zulile and Ruth-Rachel.
Join artists Zulile and Ruth-Rachel for a guided tour of their 'Wortu D'e Abra' installation. Explore Johanna Schouten-Elsenhout's work, examining independence as a continuous cultural process. The event includes Q&A and collective reflection.
Artist Tour Details
Explore solidarity and collective action for global social justice.
This gathering addresses global injustices in Congo, Palestine, and Sudan, highlighting their colonial roots. It emphasizes the critical power of community, solidarity, and collective action as essential for creating a more just world.
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Discover Black history, cultural heritage, and the Suriname Museum.
This insightful exhibition at The Black Archives in Amsterdam delves into themes of liberation and solidarity. Your visit includes access to the Suriname Museum, enhancing the exploration of art and heritage.
Exhibition Details
Explore compelling narratives on extraction and solidarity through archival collections.
This exhibition from The Black Archives presents profound insights into historical acts of liberation, extraction, and solidarity. Discover engaging content that spreads knowledge about these critical past events, inviting contemplation on their ongoing impact.
Exhibition Details
Developed by The Black Archives with extensive community and diaspora input.
This report details over 70 recommendations for long-term recovery from Dutch trans-Atlantic slavery. It highlights the need for tangible actions, building on Amsterdam's historical apologies through community collaboration and diaspora expertise.
Advisory ReportHighlighting women and queer communities' fight for rights and recognition.
Discover 'Echoes of In*dependence,' a powerful exhibition in Amsterdam. This event commemorates slavery abolition, examining colonial legacies and their impact on gender and sexuality. Engage with panels and spoken word reflecting on contemporary struggles for human rights.
Exhibition DetailsExplore diaspora, identity, and post-colonial themes in African literature.
Engage with Ama Ata Aidoo's debut novel, 'Our Sister Killjoy,' through readings and a guided discussion. This event offers a unique perspective on cultural identity and the legacy of colonialism, as part of the 'Between Pages' literary series.
Between Pages EventUncovering the lasting impact of Indian Ocean slavery.
This exhibition investigates the profound links between the Cape colony and Utrecht, shedding light on the history of slavery. Discover the enduring legacies of Indian Ocean slavery and its largely forgotten impact in the Netherlands, presented through diverse archival materials and compelling artworks.
View ExhibitionExplore language, memory, and cultural independence with artists Zulile and Ruth-Rachel.
Join artists Zulile and Ruth-Rachel for a guided tour of their 'Wortu D'e Abra' installation. Explore Johanna Schouten-Elsenhout's work, examining independence as a continuous cultural process. The event includes Q&A and collective reflection.
Artist Tour DetailsExplore solidarity and collective action for global social justice.
This gathering addresses global injustices in Congo, Palestine, and Sudan, highlighting their colonial roots. It emphasizes the critical power of community, solidarity, and collective action as essential for creating a more just world.
View Gathering DetailsDiscover Black history, cultural heritage, and the Suriname Museum.
This insightful exhibition at The Black Archives in Amsterdam delves into themes of liberation and solidarity. Your visit includes access to the Suriname Museum, enhancing the exploration of art and heritage.
Exhibition DetailsExplore compelling narratives on extraction and solidarity through archival collections.
This exhibition from The Black Archives presents profound insights into historical acts of liberation, extraction, and solidarity. Discover engaging content that spreads knowledge about these critical past events, inviting contemplation on their ongoing impact.
Exhibition DetailsDeveloped by The Black Archives with extensive community and diaspora input.
This report details over 70 recommendations for long-term recovery from Dutch trans-Atlantic slavery. It highlights the need for tangible actions, building on Amsterdam's historical apologies through community collaboration and diaspora expertise.
Advisory Report
Discover overlooked stories of freedom fighters and their impact on history.
Presented by The Black Archives, this outdoor exhibition explores pivotal moments in liberation history. Discover a powerful timeline showcasing freedom fighters whose stories have been marginalized.
Exhibition Details
Exploring post-colonial realities and international solidarity movements.
Journey through 'Echoes of In*dependence' to understand complex realities of sovereignty for formerly colonized nations. This exhibition at The Black Archives highlights interconnected liberation movements and celebrates underrecognized women integral to these struggles, featuring new works by diaspora artists.
Exhibition Details
Exploring anti-black racism and Black identity through art and archives.
The 'Facing Blackness' exhibition delves into the historical portrayal of Black people from the colonial era to contemporary society. It uses unique archival materials and visual art to illustrate anti-black racism in Dutch culture and highlight acts of everyday resistance and self-definition.
Facing Blackness
Reflecting on anti-colonial and anti-fascist legacies in contemporary society.
Learn about Anton de Kom's influential messages and their relevance in today's world. This month-long event features activities aimed at continuing his fight for liberation.
Anton de Kom-Maand
Explore migration, emancipation, and cultural heritage through personal accounts.
This special event in Amsterdam collects intergenerational stories from the Surinamese community, focusing on independence. Listen to personal recollections and musical lectures, contributing to The Black Archives' historical preservation efforts.
Srefidensi Event
Participate in a letter-writing event supporting social justice worldwide.
The Black Archives invites you to 'Write for Rights' on December 10, 2025, in partnership with Amnesty International. This free event provides materials and guidance to advocate for human rights through powerful letters of support.
Write for Rights Event
Panel discussions, cultural performances, and aid for Darfur families.
Explore an event dedicated to raising awareness and crucial funds for the Darfur genocide in Sudan. Participate in discussions, hear personal stories, and enjoy cultural performances supporting critical humanitarian aid for families.
Genocide Awareness Event
Explore cultural heritage and legacy through unique archival materials.
Discover the impactful history of Surinamese independence at this special event. The program examines its lasting significance for young people, featuring insightful discussions and access to rare archival documents. Engage with a vibrant community celebration.
Independence CelebrationA curated selection of artistic and historical programs to explore.
Delve into the vibrant world of Amsterdam's museum programs, showcasing a variety of themes from contemporary art to historical artifacts. Uncover engaging cultural exhibitions across the city's numerous venues, offering enriching experiences for all interests.
