After a decade and a half of sustained activism, a prominent Dutch advocacy group has announced a landmark victory in its campaign to end the use of blackface in a national holiday tradition.
A Long Campaign Against 'Zwarte Piet'
The group Kick Out Zwarte Piet, led by activist Jerry Afriyie, stated on December 5, 2025, that its 15-year mission has finally achieved its goal. The organization focused on eliminating the figure of Zwarte Piet (Black Pete), the traditional helper of Sinterklaas, the Dutch version of Santa Claus.
For years, the character was portrayed by people wearing blackface makeup, exaggerated red lips, and afro wigs, a practice widely condemned as a racist stereotype. Protests, like one documented in Breda, Netherlands, on November 13, 2021, became annual flashpoints in a national debate about racism, cultural heritage, and identity.
The Turning Tide in Dutch Society
The declaration of victory signals a profound shift in public perception and practice across the Netherlands. While the tradition of Sinterklaas remains deeply cherished, the portrayal of his helper has undergone a significant transformation in response to the campaign.
Major cities, television broadcasts, and public events have largely moved away from the blackface portrayal. Alternative versions, where the helpers are depicted with soot smudges or different colored faces, have become increasingly mainstream, reflecting a broader societal reckoning with the character's origins.
Implications and Lasting Impact
The success of Kick Out Zwarte Piet represents more than just a change in a holiday custom. It marks a pivotal moment in the Netherlands' ongoing conversation about its colonial past and present-day inclusivity. The group's persistent efforts, spanning over 15 years, highlight the power of grassroots activism to challenge and reshape long-held national traditions.
While some segments of the population still defend the old tradition, the widespread adoption of new interpretations demonstrates that cultural practices can evolve. This victory is seen by activists as a crucial step toward a more equitable society, proving that sustained advocacy can lead to tangible social change.
