Several dozen people gathered at the restaurant in the afternoon, including the current owner. Around a quarter to four, banners are hung up with the text ‘There is no place for hatred here’. The remains of the fire are clearly visible behind the fences. There is little left of the restaurant. Police previously said that the fire was probably started and that a racist motive was being investigated. Mayor Bram Diepstraten of Drechterland also spoke out and made it known to be shocked.
Initiative started by the residents
After the welcome speech from initiator Sanne den Adel, the owner of the restaurant is called forward and receives a bouquet of flowers. “I’ve been here for almost a year now and have never had any problems with the people. We do our best and try to grow as a restaurant. But yes, this happened,” he says.
The initiator says that the fire has caused a stir in the village. “Everyone keeps talking about it and naming it. It really does mean something,” says Den Adel. “Speaking out against racism, that we have to stand up against it and not accept it. And not remain silent, but also say that,” she continues about the message of the canvas.
Resident Marielle was also shocked by the fire last week. “It’s normally a sleeping village. Nothing really ever happens here. And now this bizarre event…” she explains. “There is never room for hatred. You can kill each other or disagree with each other. But you don’t set a shop on fire. And slogans that give you goosebumps and you think how someone could get it into their head.”