Black History Month with Rowan

What message would you like to share with your riders?

Well, lately I’ve realized that as a child there were multiple moments where I experienced racism, without me knowing it was actually happening. I have always had quite a two-sided position, since I’m half Moluccan but also half Dutch with the most typical dutch last name ever: Smit. So I also got to experience white privilege in a way. For instance, when I tried to apply for a job I never experienced that someone would discriminate me because of my name. I used to think I mostly felt like people saw me differently because of being gay. I only later realized it wasn’t always about that, I also got treated differently because of the color of my skin. So what I want to focus on is that everyone should be able to be their true authentic selves. No matter your skin color, religion or sexual orientation.

How did you experience being treated differently because of your appearance?

Well as a kid my parents tried their very best to protect me from it. Without telling me to act differently. Something like not being allowed to play with a friend just because of the color of my skin is something I’ve experienced multiple times. That was super confusing to me because as a child you don’t realize the real reasons behind it yet. When you grow up and learn more about racism you start to recognize it more and more, but you also get the tools and confidence to stand up for yourself and others. It’s so important to educate yourself because in that way you can also start conversations with others and spread the message.

Do you feel like Amsterdam is an open-minded place to live in?

Yes, but that’s the whole misleading part. In Amsterdam it’s quite easy to be yourself and be open about who you are. But there are so many other places where people do not have the rights or freedom to be who they are. I personally never felt left out by friends or family for being who I am. But that doesn’t mean I don’t feel the need to stand up for the people that have and support them!

Do you have any black owned businesses you really love and support?

Yes! A friend of mine Lina Leter started ‘Bag to Black’. She makes Eco-friendly bags of which 100% of profits will be donated to charity. In the first two months they already donated €1689 to their first 3 charities! I am so proud of her, please go check it out and show some love.

Any final messages you would like to share?

My motto in life is that we should celebrate our differences wether it’s your skin color, religion, sexual orientation or whatever. We are all worthy, and we should treat each other with respect and treat others the same way you want to be treated. People are literally still being killed for who they are. So it is time to open your eyes to the truth, educate yourself and stand up for others who need it. You have the right and power to defend someone if you see they are being mistreated!