Commemoration of the seven Congolese who died during the 1894 World’s Fair

A painful chapter in history

On 12 May, the Consulate-General of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the CVGA (Congolese-Flemish Community of Antwerp) held a commemoration at the Schoonselhof in Antwerp for the seven Congolese people who died during the 1894 World’s Fair. They were part of a group of Congolese who were exhibited at the time in a so-called African Village in Antwerp, under degrading conditions.

During the ceremony, a monument bearing their names was unveiled. An important moment of recognition and remembrance.

(Read more below the photos)

A heart-warming and meaningful moment

Anke Dumez, director of Mamas for Africa, was also present at the ceremony:

It was a heart-warming and meaningful moment, with moving speeches and a strong sense of solidarity, she says. We must not forget this part of history. It is important that we continue to commemorate and acknowledge what was done to these people.

Keeping the memory alive

This initiative is part of a wider movement to bring the colonial past to light and give space to stories that have long been overlooked.

Recognising the past and fighting for justice today go hand in hand. Even today, women and girls remain victims of violence and injustice. That is why we continue to campaign for women’s rights and protection against violence.