Westerkwartier – On May 4, all Dutch victims who have died since the outbreak of the Second World War are commemorated, both civilians and military personnel, in war situations and in peace operations since then.
During Remembrance Day, victims of wars and conflicts are remembered, as well as those who died during peace missions and oppression. It is a moment of reflection, respect and contemplation, with an emphasis on the importance of freedom, peace and human dignity. On May 4 at 8 p.m., two minutes of silence will be held across the country as a mark of respect for the victims and as a tribute to their sacrifice.
Calling Ard van der Tuuk
“May 4th we commemorate those who fell for our freedom. May 5th we celebrate our freedom. It hurts many to see our flag hanging upside down. Therefore the urgent request: display the flag correctly on May 4 and 5. Out of respect for those who fell and those who fought for our freedom.” Ard van der Tuuk (Mayor of the Westerkwartier) said this via https://twitter.com/ArdvanderTuuk/status/1785983437955854357.
Inverted flags
It has become a familiar sight in the Netherlands: flags hanging in an inverted position, as a sign of protest against the nitrogen policy. This symbolic act has its origins in a tradition dating back to the sixteenth century. Then ships at sea used the inverted flag as a distress signal, a sign that they were in danger and needed help. Today, this gesture is used on land to indicate another form of threat: concern for the environment and the consequences of nitrogen policy.
