Soot Pete

It's time for Saint Nicholas to arrive in Holland with his many helpers. For many years every helper was a Black Pete. More and more discussion was about this Black Pete. Some people felt discriminated or were, because of the colour of their skin, teased or harassed by being called Black Pete. So a large group of people wants change. And a large group of people doesn't. Emotions run high. Discussions aren't done in mutual respect. It's as bad as people pro or against Trump...

Slightly though things are changing. In Utrecht today Sinterklaas was accompanied by both Black Petes and Soot Petes. Pete goes down chimneys to bring presents, hence a face with soot.

It's not the same everywhere in Holland. In some places there are only Black Petes, some have a mix of Black and Soot Petes, some have multi coloured Petes.

Personally I think change is a good thing. If people feel hurt, we need to change. It's a celebration for all.