Suriname-Cura?ao Diaspora Foundation Launched: A New Chapter or a Familiar Tune?

Suriname-Cura?ao Diaspora Foundation Launched: A New Chapter or a Familiar Tune?

October 29, 2024

On October 24, 2024, a significant event occurred at the Renaissance Hotel in Cura?ao: the official launch of the Suriname-Cura?ao Diaspora Foundation (SSDIC). With an audience of dignitaries and local professionals, the event was attended by none other than Suriname's President, Chan Santokhi, and Cura?ao’s Prime Minister, Gil-mar ‘Pik’ Pisas. The moment was marked by a speech by Prime Minister Pisas, ending his address with the Surinamese phrase "Soso Lobi" (Only Love), capturing the deep historical and cultural ties between Cura?ao and Suriname.

The foundation's chair took the podium to emphasize the importance of collaboration rooted in shared history. He highlighted that the Surinamese community in Cura?ao is not an insular group but serves as a bridge, fostering understanding and building connections across cultures. This approach of openness to cultural exchange is the foundation’s vision, intending to strengthen bonds not only within the community but also between both nations as well.

Yet, this launch raises a few questions. Why form a new foundation when there are already established democratic networks like the long-standing JPF (Justitia Pietas Fides (Gerechtigheid, Liefde, Trouw)), which has been actively promoting Surinamese culture and community for over a century? JPF has welcomed notable Surinamese visitors over the years and, in many ways, has embodied the very essence of diaspora identity and solidarity that SSDIC now aims to promote.

For many, the concept of a "diaspora" is new within Cura?ao’s discourse. Here, we are more accustomed to terms like "brain drain" and, recently, "brain gain." The sudden launch of SSDIC, reportedly supported by Suriname’s Foreign Minister and Consul, has raised eyebrows. What has prompted this new initiative, and what does it signify for Surinamese Cura?aoans?

This question of motivation becomes even more pertinent when we consider the array of professionals who have already shown interest in SSDIC, many signing up via LinkedIn during the launch event. A digital network of this kind could create a platform for professional collaboration and cultural exchange. However, what draws these individuals toward a foundation rather than an association with deeper roots and established influence?

Could SSDIC’s approach better align with the new, more digital-savvy generation? Perhaps its structure or connections offer unique opportunities that JPF does not. Alternatively, it could be a result of diplomatic efforts—Minister Ramdin’s involvement suggests a level of state interest that might indicate broader ambitions for Surinamese relations in the region.

The launch of SSDIC opens up exciting possibilities for cultural exchange and mutual support between Suriname and Cura?ao. However, it also raises questions about representation and the motivations behind creating a new foundation rather than fortifying existing networks. Will SSDIC bring substantial value to the diaspora community and the two nations it aims to connect, or does it risk becoming another symbolic entity, perhaps benefiting a select few?

Time will tell if SSDIC can become a unifying force, embracing the legacy of the Surinamese diaspora while forging new paths for collaboration.

Miguel Goede