De VrijeHeid Maaltijd in de Dichtersbuurt
Since 2023, SAMA is located in Dichtersbuurt, Amsterdam Nieuw-West. This neighbourhood, built 60 years ago, consists of 426 homes housing approximately 1,000 residents. As part of a planned gentrification initiative, these homes will soon give way to 850 new larger apartments, signalling both change and opportunity. Dichtersbuurt’s residents predominantly come from non-Western backgrounds (70%), with many elderly individuals (45%) and a high number living alone (54%). Amidst these transitions, SAMA was invited by EigenHaard and Stadsdeel Nieuw-West to connect with and empower this diverse community through accessible arts and cultural activities.
Our work in Dichtersbuurt began with the All Inclusive Kunsttuin - Connected in Dichtersbuurt program, centred on plants and personal stories. This initiative culminated in an exhibition and an e-book, crafted after three months of workshops and cultural exchanges. Building on this success, we now turn our focus to the 12 streets of Dichtersbuurt, all named after Dutch poets and writers, with the 2024 theme: De Vrije Bladen van Dichtersbuurt.
Theme 2025: De zachte krachten zullen zeker winnen
Inspired by the poetic words of Henriëtte Roland Holst:
"De zachte krachten zullen zeker winnen in 't eind - dit hoor ik als een innig fluistren in mij: zo 't zweeg zou alle licht verduistren alle warmte zou verstarren van binnen."
This theme reflects the transformative power of gentle, human connections, resonating with the mission of local organisations such as De Bron, De Dichter, Groen Kans, Philadelphia, EigenWijks to bridge divides through storytelling. By embracing softness and connection, we aim to create a cultural fabric where every voice matters.
Vrijheid Maaltijd: Van Brug tot Brug
We feel that this year it is fitting to honour Henriëtte Roland Holst, the Dutch poet and activist whose works resonate with themes of justice, compassion and the transformative power of love. Holst’s life and poetry offer a mirror to Dichtersbuurt’s residents.
The Lunch will be organised along Frans Bastiaansestraat - in the green belt of linden allee - as a long community table - from Brug 612 to Brug 615.
On May 5, 2025, during our Vrijheid Maaltijd, we will:
Celebrate Stories of Faraway Lands: Residents will share tales of their origins, weaving a tapestry of experiences and memories.
Engage with Roland Holst’s Poetry: Together, we will read and reflect on her works, exploring themes of solidarity and hope.
Foster Intimate Connections: The event will cater to elderly and mobility-impaired residents, offering a warm, inclusive space with activities like poetry reading, table games, and watercolor painting.
Celebrate Community: The tables will host families and children, ensuring a joyful, intergenerational atmosphere.
Bridging Cultures Through Poetry and Art Holst’s legacy reminds us of the beauty in justice and connection. By bridging the personal and the communal, SAMA’s programs in Dichtersbuurt aim to foster understanding, creativity, and unity. As we embark on this new chapter, we echo Holst’s conviction that soft forces—love, art, and shared humanity—will triumph, illuminating our collective path forward.
Conclusion From Bridget to Bridge encapsulates SAMA’s vision for Dichtersbuurt: transforming divides into connections through the gentle forces of art and culture. By intertwining the poetic past with the vibrant present, we build a bridge to a shared future, where every resident’s story and creativity enrich the community fabric.
Time: 12:00 - 15:00
Location: Frans Bastiaansstraat - Linden Allee
Estimated Attendance: ±100 people
Activities:
Poetry reading with local volunteers
Painting with local artist: Cika Schultz
Food by local Surinam-chef Marcel
De zachte krachten zullen zeker winnen
De zachte krachten zullen zeker winnenin 't eind - dit hoor ik als een innig fluistrenin mij: zo 't zweeg zou alle licht verduistrenalle warmte zou verstarren van binnen.De machten die de liefde nog omkluistrenzal zij, allengs voortschrijdend, overwinnen,dan kan de grote zaligheid beginnendie w'als onze harten aandachtig luistrenin alle tederheden ruisen horenals in kleine schelpen de grote zee.Liefde is de zin van 't leven der planeten,en mense' en diere'. Er is niets wat kan storen't stijgen tot haar. Dit is het zeekre weten:naar volmaakte Liefde stijgt alles mee.
Verzonken grenzen (1918)
Schrijver: Henriëtte Roland Holst-van der Schalk