PARAMARIBO — Janey Tetary symbolizes courage, dignity, justice and daring to stand up for others. Her story therefore remains meaningful for current and future generations. This is what the Cultural Union of Suriname (CUS), which on Sunday reflected on the life, struggle and meaning of Tetary with a floral tribute and film evening, said in a press release on Monday (today).
The organization states that it wants to contribute to keeping Tetary’s story alive and at the same time draw attention to the many women and men who have contributed to the development of Suriname based on their own circumstances. “Honoring Tetary therefore means not only continuing to mention her name, but also continuing to pass on the values for which she symbolizes to future generations,” the CUS said. With Sunday’s activities, the organization not only wanted to look back on an important chapter in Surinamese history, but above all to make a connection with the present.
“Commemorating is not just looking back; commemorating is taking responsibility into tomorrow”
CUS President Kirti Ramautar
During the floral tribute at Tetary’s monument on the corner of the Grote Combéweg, honor was paid to Tetary and her place in history was considered, after which the film about her life and history was shown during the film evening. Guest speaker Fazle Shairmahomed took those present through the history of Tetary and placed her life story in the broader historical context. This gave the guests, prior to the film, more insight into the circumstances in which Tetary lived and the meaning attributed to her performance.
CUS president Kirti Ramautar emphasized that commemoration must go beyond just looking back at past events. “Commemorating is not just looking back; commemorating is taking responsibility into tomorrow.” Those present were told that values such as courage, dignity, justice and standing up for others are timeless.
Continually telling and passing on
According to the CUS, Tetary’s story should therefore not end when the film ends, but rather give rise to conversation, awareness and action. The organization believes it is important that the various stories from Surinamese history are continually told and passed on. Not to continue living in the past, but to take lessons from that history into account as we continue to build society.
Naks chairman Siegmien Staphorst discussed the important role that women have played throughout history. She made the connection with the position and responsibility of women in today’s society.
National Assembly Speaker Ashwin Adhin reflected on the lives and conditions of the contract workers. He specifically discussed the place and role of Tetary within this history.
