标签： Suriname

Hundreds of participants took to the streets of Suriname on Saturday for the Pride Walk, a highlight of Pride Month Suriname 2025. The event, marked by colorful costumes and lively energy, underscored a powerful message: “You don’t have to accept me, but respect me,” emphasized Jermain Tjin-A-Koeng, a key organizer and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. He stressed that this principle should extend beyond the LGBTQ+ community and Pride Month, urging Surinamese citizens to foster positivity and mutual respect year-round for the betterment of the nation. Despite a minor disruption—a man playing loud anti-gay music from a parked car—the event’s spirit remained unshaken as a brass band drowned out the noise, marching joyfully through the streets. The route was adjusted due to the Parbo Biri Bigi Yari Fesa at Independence Square, but this did not dampen the vibrant atmosphere. Tjin-A-Koeng, who recently received the Matie Award alongside Stichting Projekta for his longstanding dedication to LGBTQ+ rights, highlighted the ongoing need for Pride Month in 2025. “There is progress, but misunderstanding persists. More awareness and education are essential. Being ‘gay’ simply means being happy and free. We should all use this month to embrace our true selves. If we can celebrate together in December and now in October, why can’t we collaborate year-round?” he questioned. Throughout the month, various activities have been organized to inform, guide, and engage citizens, businesses, and organizations. Tjin-A-Koeng expressed gratitude for the growing support from the corporate sector, with 32 businesses signing the Declaration of Paramaribo, pledging to create safer workplaces for the LGBTQ+ community.

Today, Suriname is set to experience another warm day, with predominantly dry conditions in the morning, particularly along the coastal strip and in Paramaribo. Temperatures are expected to rise rapidly, reaching between 31 to 34 degrees Celsius by midday. The high humidity levels may make the weather feel even more oppressive. In the afternoon, localized rain and thunderstorms are likely, especially in the inland and savanna regions. These showers, though brief, could be intense, accompanied by thunder and gusty winds. Areas like Nickerie and Para might experience light rain earlier in the day. The coastal region is expected to remain mostly dry, though isolated showers inland cannot be ruled out. By late afternoon and evening, the chance of showers diminishes, and temperatures gradually drop to 24 to 26 degrees Celsius. Winds will be light to moderate, blowing from the east to northeast.

The Srefidensi Telethon officially commenced on Saturday at the Congreshal, marking a significant fundraising initiative for Suriname’s 50th anniversary of state independence. Within the first half-hour, the campaign successfully raised over SRD 10,000 through phone calls, SMS, physical donations, and bank transfers. The event, running until October 31, aims to collect a total of SRD 25 million. Organized by the Commission for 50 Years of State Independence, the Telethon seeks to fund the grand celebrations, estimated to cost SRD 65 million, with 60% of the funds allocated to schoolchildren and 40% to the festivities themselves. The initiative has garnered positive responses, including from the diaspora, as highlighted by coordinator Rachel Pinas. Influencers and TV personalities will engage with communities nationwide to encourage contributions, with the Congreshal serving as the central collection point. Pinas emphasized that donations can start from as little as SRD 50, urging everyone to participate generously.

The Foundation for Productive Work Units (SPWE) has officially reopened its renovated building on Sinaasappelstraat, offering affordable workspace to budding entrepreneurs who cannot afford commercial rents, with a particular focus on entrepreneurs with disabilities. The facility also integrates coaching, guidance, and training services under one roof. The reopening ceremony was led by Deputy Minister Raj Jadnanansing of Health, Welfare, and Labor (VWA), who unveiled a commemorative plaque and expressed gratitude to the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF), the Caribbean Development Bank, and other partners. He emphasized that this initiative aligns with the government’s goal of providing economic independence opportunities to vulnerable groups. The revamped building includes multiple units for micro-entrepreneurs, the SPWE’s Guidance and Research Department, and a multifunctional training space. SPWE Director Etienne Etman described the reopening as a renewed commitment to the workforce, fostering entrepreneurship from idea to reality. Program Manager Jaswant Doekharan (BNTF) revealed that the renovation cost SRD 5.3 million, funded by the Caribbean Development Bank with a 5% government contribution. He advocated for further financial independence for SPWE to ensure sustainable infrastructure maintenance. Board Chair Naomi Esajas-Friperson highlighted the building’s inclusive design, ensuring full accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Project Coordinator Simone Haridat noted ongoing efforts to develop a sustainable revenue model for the building’s long-term management.