How do we deal with the colonial history of Brussels and the symbols that remind us of it in the public space? What about references to Leopold II, whose name is inextricably linked to the mass murders that took place under his regime in Congo? The money with which certain buildings in Brussels were built was partly earned by exploiting Congo and its population.
That is why a resolution in the Brussels parliament calls for contextualizing colonial history in public space. Partly thanks to one.brussels, agreements have been made in the coalition agreement and State Secretary Pascal Smet has started a working group of experts and people from the communities involved: what are we going to do with the statues and symbols of Leopold II?
More important is what you, a Brussels resident, think should be done. Should there be a monument about decolonization, which commemorates the victims and makes us reflect on how colonial ideas continue to this day? Or do you have better ideas on how to deal with our colonial past? Brussels, with more than 182 nationalities in its territory, must play a leading role in this matter.
Our metropolis is a place of interculturality and diversity. Colonial symbols and ideas are at odds with this. That is why we as one.brussels want to work with you on a city that is inclusive for everyone.
- Stay as there are
- Provided with a context and explanation about the colonial past
- Accompanied by being replaced by a monument of decolonisation
- Be taken away
Complete the survey below and let us know what you think we should do with the colonial symbols on the street. The statues of Leopold II must: