From October 4 to 11, Drenthe will be colored in all the colors of the rainbow during the annual Rainbow Week. A week where diversity, inclusivity, and meeting are central. Activities will take place throughout Drenthe that draw attention to acceptance, safety, and the right to be yourself.
This week, the importance of an inclusive society will also be visibly acknowledged in the provincial house. Provincial executive Yvonne Turenhout, rainbow ambassador Henk Nijmeijer, and director Marjan van der Weij will raise the rainbow flag together at the provincial house. A powerful symbol that shows what we stand for as a province: a society where everyone is welcome and everyone matters.
Everyone is Involved
Drenthe is proud of its status as the first Rainbow Province of the Netherlands. Together with all twelve municipalities, the province has been working for years to promote the social acceptance of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Provincial executive Yvonne Turenhout emphasizes the importance of this commitment: “In Drenthe, we find it important that everyone can be themselves and feels the freedom to love whom they want. It is our shared responsibility to stand up for equality and acceptance.”
Coming Out Day and Other Initiatives
Coming Out Day on October 11 marks the starting point of Rainbow Week. Just as there is attention for people with disabilities during the Accessibility Week (October 6 to 12), this week focuses on the visibility of LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Activities in Drenthe
During Rainbow Week, rainbow flags will be raised throughout Drenthe, exhibitions will take place, and discussions will be held about acceptance and safety. Everyone is welcome to participate. Curious about what is happening near you? Check the websites of the participating municipalities for the complete program.
First Provincial Rainbow Ambassador
Henk Nijmeijer, the first provincial rainbow ambassador of the Netherlands, tirelessly advocates for acceptance, freedom, and inclusion. In his book Colors of Equality, which has been available since September 26, he connects personal experiences with social analysis. He shows how laws, symbols, education, and sports can make a difference. At the same time, he addresses the consequences of resistance, polarization, and silence. The book is a call to not shy away, but to build together a society where everyone can be themselves, regardless of who you are or who you love.
Social Agenda: Everyone is Involved and Everyone Matters
Rainbow Week aligns seamlessly with the Inclusion Agenda of the province of Drenthe. It encompasses themes such as accessibility, informal care, volunteer work, newcomers, and a dementia-friendly society. The province supports municipalities in developing rainbow policies, provides subsidies, and stimulates initiatives that contribute to an inclusive society.
