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King Willem-Alexander apologized for the Netherlands' role in the history of slavery in Amsterdam's Oosterpark on Saturday. The Dutch king gave a speech on the occasion of the National Commemoration of Slavery Past. Today I stand before you. Today, as your King and as a member of the government, I make this apology myself. And I feel the weight of the words in my heart and my soul. But for me, there is another personal dimension.
The Netherlands formally abolished slavery in its colonies in 1863, but has only recently begun to actively acknowledge its participation in the practice.
Dutch King Willem-Alexander would not say on Thursday whether he will deliver an apology about the country's historical ties to slavery when he speaks next week during a ceremony in Amsterdam. On July 1, the Netherlands will commemorate the 150th anniversary of the practical abolition of slavery. On that day, the king will be present at the ceremony and celebration in Amsterdam.