Indigenous People’s Day in Suriname
Suriname marks Indigenous People’s Day, also called the National Day of Indigenous Peoples, each year on August 9. It is a national free day established in 2006 to recognize the country’s Indigenous peoples and their heritage.[1][2]
Meaning and origins
The Surinamese government says Indigenous representatives proposed August 9 because it is also the United Nations’ International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. Suriname chose the date when it established its own national day in 2006. The observance recognizes Indigenous peoples as the country’s original inhabitants and draws attention to their rights and future.[1][2]
Suriname’s official Heritage Month account describes Indigenous communities as having lived in the area for thousands of years. It names Lokono, Kali’na, Trio, Wayana and Akurio communities among those living across the country today, and says each has its own language, culture and traditions.[3]
Recognition and culture
The day is a Surinamese national observance, while August 9 also has international significance. In Suriname, government messages connect the date with recognition of Indigenous culture, history and heritage, as well as with attention to Indigenous rights and prospects for the future.[1][2]
Suriname’s heritage account describes knowledge of nature, medicinal plants, hunting, fishing and forest stewardship as knowledge passed between generations. It also recognizes Indigenous arts and crafts, including woodcarving, weaving, ceramics and traditional music. These are parts of the country’s Indigenous heritage; they are not a fixed programme for the holiday.[3]
How it is observed
Government accounts describe a day of public recognition and commemoration. One Ministry of Regional Development report records a modest gathering at the Directorate for Sustainable Indigenous Development, attended by ministry and directorate officials and invited guests. That example does not establish a single format followed in every community or every year.[2]
Official messages address both the wider Surinamese community and Indigenous people in particular.[1][2]
Public holiday and practical plans
The Ministry of Regional Development and Sport identifies the observance as a national free day. August 9 is the recurring date. Check with individual services before travelling or arranging errands.[1]
Frequently asked questions
When is Indigenous People’s Day in Suriname?
It is observed every year on August 9. The date was chosen at the proposal of Indigenous representatives, according to the government.[1]
Is it a day off?
The Ministry of Regional Development and Sport describes it as a national free day, established in 2006.[1]
Are banks, shops and public transport open?
Check opening hours and transport schedules with the bank, shop or transport provider you plan to use.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Indigenous People's Day in Suriname:
- Boodschap van het Ministerie van Regionale Ontwikkeling en Sport in het kader van de Nationale Dag der Inheemsen 9 augustus 2021- Ministerie van Regionale Ontwikkeling en Sport, Overheid van de Republiek Suriname
- Toekomstgericht werken aan duurzame lokale ontwikkeling voor Inheemsen- Ministerie van Regionale Ontwikkeling, Overheid van de Republiek Suriname
- Heritage Month Suriname- Kabinet van de President, Overheid van de Republiek Suriname