On 5 May, Liberation Day, KIT hosts a special programme combining a Freedom Meal with a historical lecture about KIT in wartime.

Historian Niek Lohmann will explore the institute’s role during the Second World War. Shortly after the German invasion in 1940, large parts of the building were occupied by the Ordnungspolizei. At the same time, the institute continued parts of its work and, notably, provided shelter to both German police services and people in hiding, including members of the resistance. Research, exhibitions and film programs continued under conditions set by the occupying forces, reflecting a complex balance between adaptation and integrity. The lecture sheds light on how the institute’s leadership navigated these years, while acknowledging the impact on staff, some of whom were dismissed or deported to camps.

The program starts at 11.30 with registration
Lecture (in Dutch!) at KIT Live Theatre 12.00 – 13.00
Freedom Soup meal (limited seats) at KIT Café 13.00 – 14.00.

The number of spots for the soup meal is limited; you can only register for the lecture now.

Please register below:

The Freedom Meal and lecture were made possible by the Amsterdam 4 and 5 May Committee and the Vfonds.