Join us on 7 March for the Mama Baranka Route, a powerful tour through Amsterdam that explores public artworks celebrating Black identity, resilience and creativity. This journey, starting at Nelson Carrilho’s studio, features spoken word performances, artistic reflections and deep conversations on representation in public spaces. The experience will be filmed and later showcased during “Stilte Maakt Racisme” at Pakhuis de Zwijger on 20 March.
The Mama Baranka Route is a guided walk through Amsterdam, exploring public artworks that celebrate Black identity. Along the way, we will experience spoken word performances and artistic reflections, engaging in deep conversations about representation, resilience and empowerment. This experience is not a historical tour of trauma but a celebration of strength and creativity. The journey starts at Nelson Carrilho’s studio and will be filmed for Stilte Maakt Racisme at Pakhuis de Zwijger on 20 March. Open to everyone who values equity and wants to learn more, this is an opportunity to step into a new vision of Black representation in public spaces.
The Mama Baranka Route takes participants through Amsterdam’s public spaces, highlighting artworks that celebrate Black identity. We begin at Nelson Carrilho’s studio, where we will introduce the vision of this experience. As we walk through the city, we will encounter spoken word performances, artistic reflections and meaningful discussions that challenge traditional narratives and elevate voices often unheard. The walk will conclude at the Mama Baranka statue in Vondelpark, a symbol of strength and dignity. The experience will be filmed and later showcased at Pakhuis de Zwijger on 20 March, ensuring that its impact extends beyond the day itself.
Expect an immersive and reflective journey through Amsterdam’s public spaces, focusing on Black representation, artistic expression and community dialogue. You will experience live spoken word performances and artistic storytelling, led by voices that bring new perspectives on identity and empowerment. This is an open and inclusive space for learning, sharing and connection.
Included: Guided walk, live performances, artistic reflections
Not included: Food and drinks, transport to and from the event
What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, an open mind and a willingness to engage in meaningful conversations
This event is completely free, ensuring that everyone can participate in this meaningful experience. We believe in creating accessible spaces for learning, empowerment and community building. The Mama Baranka Route is open to all who value equity and want to reflect on Black representation in public spaces. Spoken word performances, artistic reflections and guided discussions are included. If you are an artist who would like to contribute, feel free to reach out. Spaces are limited, so we encourage early registration.
Mama Baranka Route - GINI tribe
- Atelier Carrilho - Amsterdam
from
p.p.
- Walk through Black art in AMS
- Live spoken word performances
- Filmed for "Stilte Maakt Racisme
A Monument of Strength
Mama Baranka
In the heart of Vondelpark, the Mama Baranka statue stands as a symbol of Black strength, dignity and creation. This powerful monument was created in response to the 1983 murder of Kerwin Duinmeijer, a victim of racial violence in the Netherlands. Rather than centring on pain, it represents resilience, heritage and the ongoing fight for justice.
As part of the Mama Baranka Route, we will reflect on how Black identity is represented in public spaces, why certain stories are remembered while others are erased, and how art plays a role in shaping collective memory. Our guide, Nelson Carrilho, will share his deep knowledge about Mama Baranka and other significant artworks along the route, providing insights into Amsterdam’s artistic and cultural landscape.
This experience is more than a tour, it is an opportunity to engage with the history and presence of Black identity in the city, listen to spoken word performances and take part in a meaningful discussion on representation and empowerment.
Diverse communities in Amsterdam
Hidden Histories
The Mama Baranka Route is not just about one story—it is about many voices, many histories and many communities. As we walk through Amsterdam, we will visit locations that reveal how different minority groups have been represented, repressed and, in some cases, erased from mainstream narratives.
One of our stops includes the Anne Frank House, a powerful reminder of Jewish persecution during World War II. The tour highlights how anti-Black racism, antisemitism, colonial legacies and other forms of discrimination have shaped the city, yet in vastly different ways. By connecting these histories, we create a space to learn, reflect and discuss the lasting impact of exclusion and marginalisation.
Through spoken word performances, artistic storytelling and interactive discussions, we will uncover stories of Indonesian, Surinamese, Jewish and other communities whose histories are often overlooked. This route is not about comparing struggles but about understanding how different communities have fought for dignity, representation and justice.
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Answers to guide your impact
FAQ
Is the event free?
Yes, the Mama Baranka Route is completely free to attend. We believe in making this experience accessible to all who want to be part of a powerful journey of Black empowerment, representation and collective learning.
What should I wear?
We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, as this is a city walk through Amsterdam with multiple stops along the route. Be prepared for various weather conditions, as the event takes place outdoors.
Who is this event for?
This walk is for everyone who values equity, empowerment and deeper understanding. While we centre Black identity, this is an open space for people of all backgrounds to learn, listen and engage in meaningful dialogue. The Mama Baranka Route is about unity, awareness and expanding consciousness together.
Should I bring anything?
Yes, please bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during the walk. You may also want to bring a notebook or journal to capture reflections, insights and inspirations that arise along the way.
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Mama Baranka Route - Tour
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