The 750th anniversary of Amsterdam is the perfect moment to rewrite the city's history from a female perspective. Therefore, the Amsterdam Museum is organizing the grand project 'Vrouwen van Amsterdam - een ode' (Women of Amsterdam - a tribute). Everyone is invited to pay tribute to women who have been or are still important to Amsterdam.
For decades, men have determined what we consider important, leading us to view history from a predominantly male and eurocentric perspective. What happens if we spend a year writing about our (grand)mothers, aunts, or women from the more distant past? What new insights will we gain about the city on the Amstel, founded in 1275 and now home to approximately 800,000 people, representing 180 nationalities, with just over half being women?
Women have always played an essential role in the history of Amsterdam, both in the past and present. It is important that their stories are shared and their names mentioned. Think of a woman who lived in, built, and cared for Amsterdam and its residents. Or a woman who came from afar and found a new home here. Who do you think should not be missing from the history books?
You can submit a tribute here. These will be collected on an online platform: Vrouwen van Amsterdam – een ode. The tributes will also become part of the museum collection of the Amsterdam Museum and perhaps even part of the book, podcast or exhibition, which will be on display from mid-December 2024 to August 2025.
Join in and pay your tribute to an extraordinary woman who has shaped Amsterdam. The Amsterdam Museum is looking for stories in various forms – whether it is a letter, video, audio recording, poem or another creation. Together, we will enrich the history of our city with the stories of powerful women.
*Anyone who identifies as a woman, a gender-diverse variant or has played a role in the emancipation of women is eligible for a tribute.