GRONINGEN – The province of Groningen has announced it is seeking to appoint a Rainbow Ambassador, a move aimed at promoting the safety, inclusion, and social acceptance of its LGBTQ+ residents. The decision follows a similar initiative in the neighbouring province of Drenthe and comes at a time of growing concern over declining tolerance in the Netherlands.
The new role in Groningen will be a paid, part-time position of approximately 16 hours per week. The search for candidates is already underway. The initiative stems from a motion passed by the Provincial States, which aims to translate symbolic support, such as flying the rainbow flag on Coming-Out Day, into concrete action.
"Groningen is a rainbow province, and that's an important signal. But we must also really make work of it," said Deputy Pascal Roemers. "You should be able to walk hand in hand with your partner through the city, through your village, in your neighbourhood, at your football club – wherever."
A Response to a Changing Social Climate
The appointment is seen by community advocates as a necessary step. Arjen Polstra, chairman of COC Groningen and Drenthe, endorsed the decision, highlighting a troubling trend. "It's not getting any better. The polarization in society is increasing, and with it, tolerance is decreasing," he stated. Polstra pointed to local research showing a decline in the sense of safety among LGBTQ+ individuals during nightlife in Groningen city.
He also noted the significance of making the position a paid one. "We as the COC are a volunteer organization, and that has its limits in terms of commitment," Polstra explained. "It is good that someone within the province can be dedicated to this."
While the motion was passed, it was not unanimously supported. The BBB, the largest party in the provincial government, voted against it. However, Deputy Roemers confirmed that the coalition is committed to implementing the decision, citing the coalition agreement's pledge to foster an inclusive society where everyone is equal.
"The polarization in society is increasing, and with it, tolerance is decreasing. You notice that in Groningen too."
Learning from Drenthe's Experience
Drenthe, which declared itself a "Rainbow Province" in 2016, appointed its first ambassador, Henk Nijmeijer, in 2023. A former GroenLinks state member, Nijmeijer was one of the original proponents of the 2016 motion. He now works to advise officials, give presentations in schools, and represent the province at key events, such as laying a rainbow wreath at the national commemoration at Camp Westerbork.
One of Nijmeijer's key projects has been the 'safe locker room' initiative, which encourages sports clubs to create a welcoming environment for all. According to Nijmeijer, the project has been successful, with dozens of clubs participating. This has prompted a follow-up project focused on creating 'safe schools'.
"Research from Trendbureau Drenthe shows that half of young people have experienced discrimination or bullying at school," said Drenthe Deputy Yvonne Turenhout. "I am shocked by those figures. It is crucial that we do something."
Nijmeijer, who works on a volunteer basis, sees the role as vital, especially as the Netherlands has slipped in European rankings for LGBTQ+ rights, falling from third place in 2010 to thirteenth last year. "In the Netherlands, we have to fight hard to maintain our human rights," he said.
While he faces significant online hate—which he says he no longer reads—Nijmeijer remains resolute. "It makes me even more determined to continue my duties as a rainbow ambassador," he stated. "There is still so much work to do."
