Suriname became independent on 25 November 1975, bringing an end to over three centuries of colonial rule. The 1954 Charter had already granted greater autonomy, but only after Prime Minister Henck Arron’s 1974 announcement did the path open to full sovereignty. The announcement also caused divisions among the different population groups. Many Surinamese moved to the Netherlands in these years amid uncertainty about the future.

 Since 1975, Suriname has celebrated Srefidensi Dey every year on 25 November – a day of freedom and national pride. During the celebrations, women often wear colourful angisa headscarves, traditional headdresses, conveying their thoughts and feelings by means of folding techniques.

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