Monday Blues

Monday Blues

May 31, 2026

Today is Sunday, May 31, and tomorrow will be Monday, June 1, 2026. For many people, that means Monday Blues. The year is already nearly halfway gone, and June will be the month of the 2026 World Cup.

To be honest, I already have a touch of the Sunday Blues.

At the same time, the word blue has taken on a completely different meaning for us. We are not living on a pink cloud, but on a blue one. Ever since our national team, affectionately known as the Blue Wave, qualified for the World Cup, Curaçao has been riding a wave of pride and excitement.

Yesterday, the team lost a friendly match against Scotland. We were leading 1–0 until the referee produced a red card, and the momentum shifted. Yet the Blue Wave appears to be in good form. And there is always something to learn. In this case: do not allow yourself to be provoked. The referee is not always on your side. That lesson applies not only to football but also to life.

However, the blue cloud we are currently floating on has a downside. It can prevent us from seeing our major challenges. More importantly, it can cause us to lose sight of our history and forget where we came from.

May 30, 1969, was a pivotal date in the emancipation process of the people of Curaçao. According to many observers, including sociologist René Römer, it marked the beginning of a new phase of self-awareness and the search for a distinct identity. It led to a greater appreciation of our culture, our national anthem, and our flag. Papiamentu eventually secured an important place within the educational system. It also created more opportunities for Afro-Curaçaoans in society and public life. These are only a few examples of the profound changes that followed.

In many ways, the Blue Wave is simply another chapter in the same story. A story of which we are all a part. It is another step in a long journey of emancipation, self-confidence, and international recognition.

That is why it is unfortunate that many people do not know this story. How did we get here? What path have we traveled? And where will this blue wave ultimately take us?

My hope is that, after the celebration and excitement have passed, we will step down from the blue cloud and continue building our future. Not because we should be any less proud, but because there is still important work to do.

Qualifying for the World Cup is a milestone. Building a just, prosperous, and sustainable society is a far greater challenge.

And that match truly begins after the final whistle.

Miguel Goede