Every year on May 4th, the Netherlands observes Remembrance of the Dead (Dodenherdenking). At the Homomonument in Amsterdam, a special ceremony is held to commemorate all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) individuals who have been persecuted or murdered in wars and conflicts, both past and present.
The evening is a solemn gathering featuring speeches, music, and the laying of wreaths at the monument. The highlight of the ceremony is the nationwide two minutes of silence observed at 8:00 PM to honor the victims.
This commemoration serves not only as a moment of remembrance for those lost during World War II but also to reflect on the continued struggle for safety and freedom for LGBTQ+ people worldwide. Everyone is welcome to join this respectful and moving tribute.