On March 9, the presentation of Kroeshaar; What you need to know and More, the very first Dutch book about kinky hair, took place. After a beautiful church service led by Reverend Polanen, the presentation could begin in the packed Konings Kerk in Watergraafsmeer in Amsterdam.
Daisy Liong-A-Kong, the writer's father, recited her favourite poem accompanied by Raimatia, son of the renowned percussionist Carlo Hoop, on an Apenti drum.
The poem Wan Bon by one of the most famous writers Dubru, is about unity. Unity that connects the Surinamese peoples, a unity that finds its way through the fundamental similarities across the various cultures.
It was also the message that Mireille Liong-A-Kong wanted to convey as a writer at a time when natural frizzy hair still seemed controversial. Instead of seeing the different hair types as a measure to categorize women, it was time for unification.
After Hannah Belliot, Councillor for Culture, had confiscated the first copy and spoken words of praise, the signing of the books could begin.
The author, Mireille herself, had a wonderful day. It couldn't have been better, she said. My thanks go to all those present and of course mainly to Uitgeverij Conserve who made this possible, but also to Guus Pengel and Ingrid Pool, who took the time to read the book before it came out.
Also those who made the day a success. Those are all the friends, family and especially my dad who recited the poem so beautifully, my brother Jeff who is always a support and confidant, Raimata and his father Carlo Hoop and Haydee Sheombar who took the photos.
See photo report