Empathy Day

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.

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

2. The Living Object – Wensley Pique

3. Practicing Utopia - Patchwork.

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.