Sunday Summary: Koningsdag, Personal Reflections

This week I have overheard numerous conversations about King’s Day.

I was asked what my plans were although I’m working and I don’t mind missing out on most of the festivities. The only thing I’d be interested in is the flea markets in the park in front of the library. This section of the park is called Monseigneur Nolenspark. 

Who was he? How do I feel about this remembrance? Who would I like to remember instead?

A Dutch classmate is going to Amsterdam to celebrate King’s Day, something she previously said she’d never want to do. The streets will be full, consisting not only of locals but also many tourists. 

Do I enjoy being in crowded streets with drunk people when I myself am not one of them?

A few other students from my year are having a garden party, with friends from Germany visiting. An orange, summer dress, ordered to match the festivities and make it special. 

Even if secondhand, sustainable, and environmentally conscious, it still requires energy usage for delivery. Is it necessary? Do I need it that badly?

King’s Day this year is actually on the King’s birthday, last year they moved it so it wouldn’t fall on a Sunday. 

Why do we celebrate King’s Day? Who decided that we do?

Personally, I find it odd to celebrate the monarchy. When I told someone this they simply responded with “it’s not actually about the king, but what we decide to fill this day with.”

A quick Wiki search will tell you all that you need to know about the history of this holiday. For me, it belongs abolished, rebranded as something else entirely. Instead, there should be protests. 

With everything and anything we get to know, the information is not neutral. It’s always framed in a certain way whether we do it on purpose or not. With all the things I’m supposed to learn during my studies, and don’t, these topics only enhance my curiosity, scepticism, interest, and criticism. The eye for being detailed. 

It is our responsibility to critically reflect on and research the background of this national holiday and build a grounded opinion!