Empathy Day
With contributions from, among others: Sinan Çankaya, Hannah Prins, Jerry Afriyie, Frida Boeke and you.
On Sunday 3 May 2026, Empathy Day 2026 will take place at the International Theatre Amsterdam (ITA) from 12.30 pm to 3.00 pm. Together with artists, speakers and visitors, we will explore the power of empathy. The programme for Empathy Day 2026 consists of powerful conversations, workshops and special encounters. During this afternoon, we will call on everyone to put humanity first in the coming year.
Free admission
Limited number of tickets available
A discussion on the power of empathy (2.00–3.15 pm)
In the second part of the programme, following the workshops, we will come together for a plenary discussion on the power of empathy. Where should our empathy be directed now more than ever? Which groups, in the Netherlands or elsewhere in the world, deserve our empathy? How can we use empathy to foster the solidarity that so many people around the world are currently seeking? We will be holding this discussion together with Sinan Çankaya, Hannah Prins, Jerry Afriyie, Frida Boeke and you.
The Amsterdam 4 and 5 May Committee and the Day of Empathy will round off the afternoon with updates on this year’s activities surrounding 4 and 5 May. Afterwards, you can visit various events around the city or stay at ITA for additional programmes.
WORKSHOPS (12.30–14.00)
Prior to the main programme, you can attend various workshops to foster greater understanding and empathy (from 12.30 pm to 2.00 pm). Don’t miss out – register now (admission: €10).
1. Emotion Networks – Reinwardt Academy & Imagine IC
2. The Living Object – Wensley Pique
3. Practicing Utopia - Patchwork.-|- About Empathy Day
On 3 May 2026, on the eve of the National Remembrance Day and Liberation Day, it is Empathy Day throughout the Netherlands. Since 2012, 3 May has been a special annual occasion on which our diverse society comes together to get to know one another (again). Empathy Day encourages (unexpected) encounters between people from diverse backgrounds, walks of life and experiences. The better we get to know one another, the more space there is for genuine connection and empathy.
Together with inspiring guests from the LGBTQIA+ community, we explore the themes behind the theatre experience. Two episodes per session — with a free drink during the break!
Together with inspiring guests from the LGBTQIA+ community, we explore the themes behind the theatre experience. Two episodes per session — with a free drink during the break!
Together with inspiring guests from the LGBTQIA+ community, we explore the themes behind the theatre experience. Two episodes per session — with a free drink during the break!
