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.
The programme consists of three parts:
Free admission
Limited number of tickets available
part 1:
Part 1: Workshops (12.30–14.00)
part 2: A discussion on the power of empathy (2.00–3.15 pm)
part 1: Meet-up Café
Van 12.00–16:00
Our Meet-up Café is open from 12.00 to 16.00. Why not strike up a conversation with ‘the other’ in the Meet-up Café whilst enjoying a drink and a snack? What do we have in common, and how do our differences complement one another?-|-
We only realise what we have in common with others once we’ve got to know each other. This starts with a simple ‘hello’ or an outstretched hand. Leave your preconceptions at home and engage in conversation with an open mind. Our Empathic Conversation Cards get the conversation going straight away.
Part 2: Workshops
From 12.30–14.00
On 3 May 2026, on the eve of the National Remembrance Day and Liberation Day, it isEmpathy 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.-|-
Prior to the main programme, you can attend various workshops to foster greater understanding and empathy. Don’t miss out – register now (admission: €10).
1. Emotion Networks – Reinwardt Academy & Imagine IC
part 3: A discussion on the power of empathy
From 14:00–15.15
During the plenary session, which begins after the workshops, we will discuss the power of empathy together. 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.
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!
