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On October 10, 2025, President Jennifer Simons of Suriname paid tribute to the Indigenous and Maroon communities during the annual Day of the Maroons celebration. The ceremony, held at the Square of October 10, 1760, marked the 265th anniversary of the Maroons’ hard-fought struggle for freedom. President Simons emphasized that their resistance was a pivotal moment in Suriname’s history, ultimately leading to the abolition of slavery in 1863. She stated, ‘The Maroons did not receive freedom as a gift; they fought for it step by step. Their achievement should inspire us all to reflect on our shared history.’

Simons also highlighted the crucial role of Indigenous peoples in supporting escaped enslaved individuals during their flight to freedom. ‘The land we all inhabit originally belonged to the Indigenous peoples. They deserve our enduring recognition,’ she remarked. The President called for unity between Maroons and Indigenous communities, urging all Surinamese to work together for peace and progress under the theme ‘Ubuntu – I am because we are.’ She stressed, ‘No nation can thrive without unity. Even with wealth or resources, development is impossible if we do not hold onto each other. No group in this country should be left behind. We are each other’s guardians.’

In her speech, Simons reaffirmed her commitment to resolving land rights issues within three years, stating, ‘We do not need to wait for everything to be perfect. What can be addressed now must be tackled to ensure certainty for the people of the interior. I am committed to this.’ A special advisory group has been established at the Office of the President to address these matters, with consideration given to rulings by international bodies. ‘By recognizing land rights, we take steps toward a Suriname where everyone can envision their future. 2026 must be the year we take the first concrete steps,’ she declared.

The event concluded with the unveiling of the Day of the Maroons monument by President Simons and Vice President Gregory Rusland, alongside traditional leaders. The ceremony was preceded by a ‘towe waata’ ritual and the laying of wreaths by government and National Assembly members.

Today, Suriname commemorates Marrondag, a day dedicated to honoring the courage, perseverance, and quest for freedom of the Maroon community. The Party for Rights and Development (PRO) extends its congratulations not only to the Maroon community but to the entire Surinamese population on this significant occasion. The PRO emphasized that the history of the Maroons is intertwined with that of all Surinamese, serving as a reminder that freedom and justice are the cornerstones of the nation. Over two and a half centuries ago, the Maroons chose freedom over subjugation, resisting colonial rule, waging a brave struggle, and establishing autonomous communities deep in the interior. Their resilience led to peace treaties with colonial powers in 1760 and the subsequent years, marking 265 years since these agreements. These treaties are among the earliest official recognitions of free Black communities in the Americas and represent a pivotal chapter in Suriname’s history of resistance—a source of national pride that continues to inspire. Marrondag underscores that freedom is not a given; it requires maintenance, much like justice and progress. The PRO sees this day as a call to reaffirm these values. While Maroons are now visible in governance and politics, many communities remain socially and economically vulnerable. Challenges in education, infrastructure, and economic development persist, limiting opportunities for youth in these regions. The PRO views it as its duty to safeguard equal rights and development opportunities for all Surinamese, emphasizing that investing in Maroon youth is investing in the nation’s future. Education is key: it opens perspectives, strengthens communities, and keeps the spirit of freedom alive. The PRO advocates for sustained focus on education in the interior, including well-equipped schools, skilled teachers, and access to digital resources. The history of the Maroons teaches that freedom was not granted but fought for, and this spirit of self-reliance and perseverance lives on in the new generation of Maroon youth striving for knowledge, independence, and progress. Marrondag is not only a day of remembrance but also of responsibility, reminding us that the work of our ancestors is incomplete until every child in Suriname, regardless of origin or residence, has equal opportunities to thrive. The PRO wishes all of Suriname, especially the Maroon community, a powerful and proud Marrondag, hoping that the spirit of freedom, justice, and development continues to guide the nation.