Gouda honors beloved community builder Marian Eisden with posthumous citizenship
Marian Eisden, known as 'Dushi,' has been posthumously awarded Gouda’s silver honorary medal for her lifelong dedication to fostering unity and support across the city. Her legacy of compassion and inclusivity touched countless lives, from vulnerable youth to newcomers and the elderly.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Marian Eisden (known as 'Dushi') |
| Award | Silver honorary medal of Gouda (posthumous) |
| Title | Honorary citizen of Gouda |
| Date of Award | March 19, 2026 (originally planned for May 21, 2026) |
| Presented by | Mayor Pieter Verhoeve |
| Location | GODcentre, Gouda |
| Key Contributions | Community initiatives (Stadsiftar, Keti Koti, Stichting 21 Maart), AZC integration, youth support, meal programs for low-income residents |
| Legacy | Broke barriers, fostered inclusivity, and provided support to marginalized groups |
| Award History | Awarded since 1939 for exceptional contributions to Gouda |
The municipality of Gouda awards the silver honorary medal to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the city’s social fabric. This recognition reflects the city’s commitment to honoring those who foster community cohesion and support vulnerable groups. The mayor’s office oversees the selection and presentation of such distinctions.
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Marian Eisden (‘Dushi’) posthumously named honorary citizen of Gouda
Marian Eisden, known to many as Dushi, has posthumously received the silver honorary medal of the city of Gouda for her exceptional dedication to Goudan society. This medal comes with the appointment as honorary citizen of the city.
Ms. Eisden passed away unexpectedly last week. The medal was originally scheduled to be presented on May 21 as a surprise, but Mayor Pieter Verhoeve presented the award yesterday (March 19, 2026) during the farewell gathering for Dushi at the GODcentre.
Ms. Eisden was known for her boundless energy, warmth, and willingness to help everyone—regardless of religion, background, skin colour, age, political beliefs, or sexual orientation. In doing so, she embodied what it means to be a true connector in the city and became an ambassador for Gouda.
In the Korte Akkeren district, she was regarded as an indispensable force: a pillar of support for many and an example of unconditional dedication. After recovering from a difficult period, she dedicated herself with even greater passion to the people around her. With something as seemingly simple as a meal, she was able to break down walls and build bridges between people of all backgrounds.
Fostering togetherness
She used her love for cooking to create a sense of togetherness. She tirelessly and often selflessly contributed to numerous initiatives, including Stadsiftar, Keti Koti, Stichting 21 Maart, and Gouda bij Kaarslicht.
Dushi also played an important role in the integration of new residents of Gouda and residents of the AZC. She gave people who had often experienced much more confidence by addressing them for who they are. Additionally, she collected goods for people with low incomes and dedicated herself intensively to young people. She believed that all young people need attention and love and that everyone deserves a second chance.
While her meals brought people together, it was especially her listening ear, open heart, and sharp eye for inequality that left a lasting impression. Young people at risk of falling through the cracks felt seen by her. Elderly people who had become lonely found a listening ear in her. Newcomers seeking support were welcomed by her.
Silver honorary medal
The silver honorary medal is a high city distinction and has been awarded since 1939 in very special cases as a token of great appreciation and gratitude to individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to Gouda. Recipients are included in the register of honorary citizens of the city of Gouda.
Photo caption: Even during the coronavirus pandemic, when this photo was taken, Marian Eisden (‘Dushi’) – seen here with Mayor Pieter Verhoeve – was already known for her energy, warmth, and willingness to help everyone. Photo: Astrid den Haan