Walking tour through Rotterdam: 75 Years living with war

Abstract

Next year, 75 years of Freedom will be celebrated all over the Netherlands. However, 75 years of freedom also means 75 years living with war experiences, in individuals, families, and society. The events experienced during the Second World War can have longlasting effects in the daily life of those directly affected and next generations. The majority of these people are not seen by any psychologist but nonetheless influenced by these experiences. How did individuals deal with their past within communities? In the field of traumatic stress, there is still a gap in the interplay between individual and society. In this active workshop, we build bridges between disciplines and learn from historians, anthropologist, experts in ritual studies and psychologist about the broad psychosocial impact of war on individuals and society. Guided by a historian and psychologist, we make a walking tour through the city of Rotterdam. Right at the beginning of the Second World War, this city was heavily bombed by Germany. Within 15 min, the historical centre was almost totally destroyed, 650 to 900 people died and around 80.000 people became homeless. In the rebuild and modern city centre, there are a few artefacts reminding us of this tragic past. During the tour, a psychologist will reflect on public commemoration in relation to mental healing for those (in)directly affected by war. Furthermore, we listen to a testimony and life story regarding the impact of the bombing. By joining this informative walking tour, you get a chance to open your eyes for a broader view of traumatic stress within the society as a whole.