Sint-Niklaas (The Brussels Morning Newspaper): Sint-Niklaas will dedicate a black mulberry tree as a monument to honor victims of asbestos exposure with similar projects planned in nearby towns to raise awareness and support affected communities.
On September 22, Sint-Niklaas city will celebrate a black mulberry tree as a monument to remember the many people who suffered from asbestos exposure. This tree will honor those who lost their lives due to illnesses caused by asbestos. The project aims to create a space for the community to reflect and remember, as well as to raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos. Similar remembrance projects are being planned in the nearby towns of Temse and Beveren. These towns have also seen deaths caused by asbestos pollution, especially from the Boelwerf shipyard in Temse and activities at the port of Antwerp. The projects in these areas will focus on recognizing the impact of asbestos on the local people and promoting efforts to support the affected communities.
What is the significance of the black mulberry tree memorial in Sint-Niklaas for asbestos victims?
The remembrance of asbestos victims in Sint-Niklaas is a team effort supported by the city and started by the non-profit organization vzw Stoff, which has long worked to raise awareness about asbestos issues and help victims. They have organized events to honor those who have suffered. The black mulberry tree, chosen as the memorial is located in Brouwershof, a green area in the city. This tree was selected for its beauty and strength,symbolizing life and resilience even in difficult times.
From the inauguration on September 22 until June there will be a series of community visits to the tree, where participants will gather in the community hall near Brouwershof for discussions and activities. During these visits, testimonies from people affected by asbestos exposure as well as letters and personal stories will be read aloud. These events aim to create a sense of solidarity and understanding within the community providing a platform for sharing experiences and expressing grief. The initiative will also offer opportunities for education and dialogue, helping to keep the memory of the victims alive and raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos exposure.
