On the July 26, 2014 blog, "What's In A Name", I criticized so-called harmless traditions like the "Golliwog" in Britain, "Redskins" in America, "Black Pete" (Santa Claus's helper) in Holland etc. My critique was based on 2 facts: 1) these caricatures provoke painful memories in today's generation about the injustices done to their ancestors. 2) They are based on a history of violence, racial discrimination and human degradation. For these reasons, I said these caricatures "should be cast out of the culture forever".
I'm happy to report that the Amsterdam mayor and city council have revealed plans to overhaul the image of "Black Pete". Usually, Santa Claus's sidekick is portrayed in parades and local festivals by white actors wearing blackface makeup, dark red lipstick and frizzy hair. Now, his appearance will be changed to make him look like a "chinmey-sweep", covered in soot from going down chimneys to deliver presents for children.
Hopefully, other Dutch cities will follow this progressive lead; but for now - Kudos to Amsterdam! You've done the right thing!
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