Blackface is Standard Costume for Santa's Helpers in Holland

Series:

Story by: Emily Kopp & Simon Broersma
Summary

These are Zwarte Pieten, or Black Peters. For some, they're a sacred yuletide tradition. For others, a racist symbol. Black Pete appeared the 1850s, when Dutch colonies still had slaves.

 

Discussion

  •   annarosalitas

    I learn my children that Zwarte Piet is just dirty because of the chimney.... and I like the tradition though I'm a 'colored' foreigner living in the Netherlands

    08 Jan 2010
      ellenyyang

    Interesting story, Emily and Simon. I have never heard of this holiday tradition. Though patently racist through my foreigner eyes, it sounds as though the Netherlanders want to hold on tight to "tradition" by falling victim to purposeful ignorance. Some traditions are better off left in the past, or should be updated to fit modern day society.

    08 Dec 2009
      Ahmed Salah Eldeen

    Nice story , I liked it so much

    04 Dec 2009