Below, excerpts. See more here.
A letter (published by NRC) from the Chair-Rapporteur from the Working Group on people of African descent stated that the UN has received information that the character and image Zwarte Piet perpetuate a stereotyped image of African people and people of African descent as second-class citizens, fostering an underlying sense of inferiority within Dutch society and stirring racial differences as well as racism.
He added that the government is aware the people’s opinions of the festival differ and that "the Dutch government is aware that 'Black Pete' is considered by some to be offensive." He also noted that complaints to anti-discrimination offices about Zwarte Piet have been increasing in recent years: from three or four a year in Amsterdam up to 2010, then 113 in 2011 and a record 204 in 201[2].
Henk Leegte, who organises the Amsterdam procession, said he is happy to discuss possible changes with protestors in January. He also says he understands their objections to the curly hair, black make-up, red lips and gold earrings. "I can personally propose beginning by giving one hundred out of the five hundred Piets a different appearance," he said. It is, however, it is too late to make changes this year, as the procession is due to take place on November 17.
From: United Nations investigates Zwarte Piet for racism (23 October 2013, by Alexandra Gowling): http://www.iamexpat.nl/read-and-discuss/expat-page/news/united-nations-investigates-zwarte-piet-racism-netherlands#sthash.BF98C35s.dpuf
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