On our islands, we speak about building bridges. Yet too often, we build invisible walls: ideas about who we are, who our neighbours are, and why we must remain different.
“We are Aruba. We are not Curaçao.”
There is nothing wrong with being proud of our identity. Our islands have their own histories, cultures and aspirations. But I wonder how much the political language of separation has shaped the way we see one another. When that thinking passes from generation to generation, we risk treating distance as something to protect rather than something to overcome.
What opportunities could we create by working more closely together?
Imagine sharing expertise and resources more deliberately. One island could develop specialised heart care, another lung care, with cooperation improving access for both communities. It would take careful planning, but the principle is straightforward: we could build on each other’s strengths instead of trying to do everything separately.
The cultural and creative industries offer a place to start now.
Imagine artists from Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao sharing stages, filmmakers exchanging equipment and expertise, and cultural organisations creating programmes together. A theatre production could travel across all three islands. Young creatives could learn alongside their neighbours. Shared networks could open doors to larger audiences, new markets and more paid opportunities.
Each island would bring its own voice, with more people able to hear it.
Our political leaders have a role in making this cooperation easier. But we can also begin within our communities, with a conversation, an exchange or one shared project that grows into a lasting partnership.
I keep returning to the words on Curaçao’s Autonomy Monument: “Steunend op eigen kracht, doch met de wil elkander bij te staan.” Relying on our own strength, yet willing to support one another.
Those words deserve a place in how we live and work.
It gives me hope to hear of younger generations beginning these conversations, finding ways to support neighbouring communities and help people feel less alone. We can bring that same willingness into our cultural and creative industries.
Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao: three distinct islands with the potential to achieve so much together.
Are we ready for this conversation, and ready to turn it into collaboration?
Who’s in? Samen zijn we sterk.