Moroccan tree becomes symbol of inclusivity in Dutch park

A Moroccan Atlas cedar was planted in Leiden's Singelpark as part of a symbolic project unveiled yesterday. The cedar, along with a Dutch winter oak and a Turkish hazel tree, forms a triangle in Huigpark intended to connect people and cultures from the three countries.

According to Sleutelstad newspaper, the initiative was partly conceived by Moroccan-Dutch councilor Abdelhaq Jermoumi, who oversees inclusivity in the city. Jermoumi collaborated with botanical curator Rinny Kooi on the project, which aims to make the park known to more diverse communities. «Many people in North Leiden don't know what the Singelpark is», Jermoumi stated, hoping the trees will help introduce the park concept to Moroccan and Turkish residents.

The tree planting coincides with the 12.5-year anniversary of the citizen initiative behind Singelpark in 2025. While hundreds of thousands of people already use the park annually, organizers believe the symbolic trees will help expand awareness about the inclusive nature of this public space among all of Leiden's communities.