The April Murders: April 20, 1942

During the Second World War, Chinese workers served as stokers aboard oil tankers belonging to the Curaçao Shipping Company (CSM), which was connected to Shell. Their work was dangerous because ships faced the threat of German attacks during the war.

In February 1942, the workers went on strike to protest their working conditions, wages and lack of protection against wartime dangers. On April 20, 1942, Chinese workers were shot and killed by the military police during the conflict. According to historical sources, fifteen workers lost their lives.

The victims were buried in an unmarked grave at Kolebra Bèrdè cemetery. Every year on April 20, Curaçao remembers the victims and reflects on this tragic event.

The April Murders remind us of the importance of justice, human dignity, workers’ rights and peace.