Decolonizing Belgium

Abstract Colonial ideas and practices do not simply vanish once a colony becomes an independent state, and the consequences of colonialism are not solely for the former colony to endure. Belgium is yet to intentionally, systematically, or truthfully engage in processes of decolonizing on just and equal terms with the Democratic Republic of Congo (or Rwanda or Burundi) or with Belgians who have lineage to these countries. The horrors of the violence of white superiority are remembered in a cloistered way every decade in Belgium as the supposed colonial amnesia momentarily subsides and the historical taboo is temporarily suspended. Once the scale of the continuing colonial legacies amassed in royal, state, and private wealth, stolen remains, priceless artefacts, and abducted children, along with the reverence to this period in public spaces and endemic racism is quickly realized, it becomes easier to try and forget or deny crimes against humanity.