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Nobody Is Free, Until Everybody Is Free: Anton de Kom Exhibition on Freedom, Resistance, and Solidarity in Amsterdam

This impactful exhibition explores historical resistance and global human rights struggles for 4th of May remembrance.

The 'Nobody Is Free, Until Everybody Is Free' exhibition delves into the fragility of freedom and the persistent global fight for justice. Inspired by Fannie Lou Hamer's powerful words, it connects past resistance with contemporary human rights issues. Explore vital stories of international solidarity, including overlooked contributions from former colonies and Afro-American soldiers during WWII. This pop-up installation encourages a deeper, shared understanding of freedom's true meaning.

About Nobody Is Free, Until Everybody Is Free: Anton de Kom - 4 mei herdenking at The Black Archives in Amsterdam

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Nobody Is Free, Until Everybody Is Free: Anton de Kom - 4 mei herdenking at The Black Archives in Amsterdam

Exhibition summary

This pop-up exhibition, held on May 4th, reflects on the fragility of freedom and the ongoing global struggle for justice, drawing inspiration from Fannie Lou Hamer's quote, "Nobody’s free, until everybody’s free." It connects historical resistance and international solidarity to contemporary issues, encouraging a deeper understanding of freedom's meaning and responsibilities.

Curatorial context

The 'Nobody Is Free, Until Everybody Is Free: Anton de Kom - 4 mei herdenking' exhibition is a reflective installation that coincides with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in the Netherlands. It emphasizes that freedom is a shared responsibility, particularly in light of ongoing human rights issues, colonial legacies, and the rise of far-right movements globally. The exhibition highlights often-overlooked stories of resistance and solidarity, particularly concerning Afro-American soldiers and individuals from former colonies who were crucial in liberating Europe during WWII, but whose contributions are frequently absent from historical narratives. It aims to connect past struggles with present-day issues, fostering a sense of international solidarity and a more comprehensive understanding of freedom. The exhibition is presented in conjunction with the 4 May commemoration at the Anton de Komplein in Amsterdam Zuidoost, which includes a floral and wreath-laying ceremony honoring victims and resistance fighters from WWII, including those from the former colonies. The broader commemoration program features a speech by Professor Guno Jones (holder of the Anton de Kom Chair), poetry by Babs Gons, and brings together various organizations like Nusantara-Amsterdam, Vereniging Ons Suriname, The Black Archives, and others, supported by the municipality of Amsterdam and the 4/5 May committee Amsterdam-Zuidoost.

Admission and ticket notes

The commemoration event on Sunday, May 4th, from 16:00 to 18:30 at the Anton de Komplein is free to attend. The 'ZO Is Vrij' Liberation Festival on May 5th will also feature the exhibition and has free entry. Specific details for the festival can be found on its website.

Nobody Is Free, Until Everybody Is Free: Anton de Kom - 4 mei herdenking key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Nobody Is Free, Until Everybody Is Free: Anton de Kom - 4 mei herdenking at The Black Archives in Amsterdam

Venue
The Black Archives
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
From May 4, 2025
Artist line / attribution
The exhibition is an initiative of The Black Archives. Associated programs and commemorations involve Guno Jones (professor of the Anton de Kom Chair), Babs Gons (poet), Leo Lashley (historical figure featured), Karin Amatmoekrim (author whose article is referenced), and various supporting organizations.
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