The role of Surinamese literature in learning Dutch and Suriname’s linguistic diversity took centre stage on Thursday, October 1, during the fifth edition of the Week van het Nederlands in Brasília. The diplomatic missions of Suriname, Belgium and the Netherlands jointly organised the cultural gathering under the theme ‘Together in Dutch’.
The Surinamese ambassador to Brazil, Ike Antonius, stressed during the gathering the importance of Surinamese literature for education and for people wishing to deepen their knowledge of the Dutch language. According to him, books, alongside music and visual material, are important tools in learning a language.
Antonius invited those present to become acquainted with Surinamese authors who write in Dutch from their own cultural and social backgrounds. He referred, among others, to Anton de Kom, Robin ‘Dobru’ Raveles, Michael Slory, Astrid Roemer, Thea Doelwijt, Gerrit Barron, Cynthia McLeod, Bea Vianen and Roy Kemradj. According to the ambassador, their work offers insight into both the Dutch language and Surinamese society.
Antonius also addressed the connecting power of language. In Suriname, Dutch is used alongside approximately twenty other languages, including Sranantongo, Sarnami, Javanese, Mandarin and several Indigenous and Maroon languages. According to him, this diversity contributes to Surinamese identity and to connections between population groups, countries and continents.
According to the Surinamese embassy, Suriname also offers students the opportunity to learn to use Dutch in practice through daily contact.
The gathering was attended by representatives of the Brazilian government, the diplomatic corps and educational institutions. Surinamese, Belgians and Dutch nationals living in Brazil were also present. At the University of Brasília, Dutch is now offered as a subject within the curriculum of the faculty of languages.
The Surinamese embassy has supported the Week van het Nederlands in Brasília since 2022. During the anniversary edition, the mission reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the initiative. In 2027, the embassy will host the sixth edition.
