Senior Orchestra FPK Cancels Performance at Slavery Commemoration Due to Delayed OLB Subsidy

KRALENDIJK — The senior orchestra of Fundashon Plataforma Kultural (FPK) has, to the disappointment of many, been forced to cancel its performance at the Commemoration of the Abolition of Slavery on July 1. Last year the orchestra performed on the Wilhelminaplein during the commemoration, and this year a performance had been planned as well. However, the board of FPK found itself compelled to cancel the concert.

Nine months without clarity

The reason for the cancellation is a long-running subsidy dispute with the Public Entity Bonaire (OLB). The foundation has been waiting for more than nine months for a commitment regarding its 2026 subsidy. FPK submitted its application, as it does every year, in September 2025 to the Skal department of OLB. Now, halfway through 2026, there is still no answer and not a single cent has been transferred.

According to the board, the foundation has been drawing on its reserves for six months, reserves that have now been exhausted. There is weekly contact with Skal and other parties within OLB. Conversations are being held and patience is being requested, but a foundation cannot be kept running on promises alone, FPK states. Subsidy funds are needed for, among other things, instruments, the remuneration of teachers and volunteers, and rent.

Hòfi Kultural important to senior citizens

FPK’s activities have played an important role in the lives of senior citizens on Bonaire for more than fifteen years. Each week, more than a hundred older residents find their way to Hòfi Kultural, where they can participate free of charge in activities including cuarta lessons, sinfonia lessons, folkloric dance classes, guitar lessons, and creative mornings. The activities contribute to social contact, staying active and creative, the preservation of Bonairean culture, and the overall well-being of this group.

The board emphasizes that the decision not to perform at this important commemoration was not taken lightly. Without resources, however, the foundation is unable to organize any activities. FPK expresses the hope that OLB will soon proceed with a commitment and payment of the subsidy, so that senior citizens can once again gather in large numbers at Hòfi Kultural.