The Boereploeg of the Bergse Stichting Vastenavend has been an undisputed stronghold of men for over 77 years. But on Monday they had to believe it: the ‘Berg women for Vastenavend’ claimed their place. The mayor’s wife, Elma Petter, presented Foundation chairman Bas van Oevelen with a manifesto: “Dear farmers: open the gates of your fortress!”
During the Boeremaal, the annual meeting of Boereploeg and city council, the former mayors had already called for the admission of women on Saturday. Already during the course of Monday, the streets of the Krabbegat were buzzing with rumors: something was about to happen that evening at the Kaai. More than a hundred women would protest and demand that women can also become members of the Boerenploeg. And indeed: hours later a complete Boerinne team was ready to receive the delegation from the Foundation.
Hay bales, tractors, inverted Vastenavend flags and a singing protest accompanied by a few mop bands. Everything in a friendly and especially fun atmosphere. The protest is a carnivalesque nod to the men’s world, but one with a serious undertone: it is time for change. The Vastenavend Foundation has only admitted a woman once in history, former mayor Ans van den Berg, and that was only because there was no other option. After all, mayors are automatically members – as determined by the statutes.
“We women are on the barricades today, just like Marianne during the French Revolution.”
Shortly after half past seven, Elma Petter addressed the crowd. “We, Women For Vastenavend, have made our voice heard and cast it,” she said militantly. “We women are on the barricades today, just like Marianne during the French Revolution.” Other historical examples were also reviewed: from Alleta Jacobs (the first female doctor) to ‘Iron Lady’ Margareth Thatcher, Heks Wana and of course Mie d’n Os, ‘a hell of a woman – and we mean that positively in every respect ‘.
“The Vastenavend Foundation will soon no longer consist of men and women, but of people.”
Looking to the future, the Women for the Vastenavend want a Boereploeg where everyone is welcome, a reflection of society. That is also what the founders had in mind in 1946. “The Vastenavend Foundation will soon no longer consist of men and women, but of people. And let’s face it: the word Crabs refers to both men and women. The name of our city residents has traditionally been gender neutral.”
In any case, the women’s call will be followed up. According to Foundation chairman Van Oevelen, talks will follow about this, he promised. “After all, Lent is an inclusive party.”