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I see you! Haarlem 2026
Encounters between newcomers and fellow city residents
From September 9 through October 6, 2026
We talk a lot about newcomers. But how often do we actually meet them? Before we form opinions about each other, we need something else first: to truly see one another.
At a time when the debate around newcomers is becoming increasingly polarised, “I See You!” does something simple yet powerful: it brings together people who might never otherwise have met. Last summer, ten residents of Haarlem and newcomers connected through shared passions, dreams, work, and other common interests. What began as a meeting between strangers soon grew into a moving encounter between two people, each with their own story.
Grote Houtstraat and Stationsplein
At the end of July, we captured these encounters in striking portraits, videos, and personal stories. The outdoor exhibition opened on September 9, 2026, in the city centre of Haarlem and ran until October 6, at two locations: Grote Houtstraat and Stationsplein. The official opening took place in the Gravenzaal at Haarlem City Hall.
Explore the portraits, videos, and personal stories of the people who came together through “I See You!”.
Find the stories of HaarlemThis is what the festive opening looked like on September 9, 2026
Together, we make ‘I See You!’ Haarlem possible
Together, we make ‘I See You!’ Haarlem possible
For a project like ‘Ik zie jou!’ (‘I See You!’), you need partners who believe in the power of human connection. That is why we are incredibly pleased with our collaboration with the Municipality of Haarlem, the COA (Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers), ‘Stem in de Stad’ (‘Voice in the City’), and the Antonius Community in Haarlem.
For many years, ‘Stem in de Stad’ has served as a place where people meet, listen to one another, and find support when needed. Driven by this deep commitment to the city and its residents, ‘Stem in de Stad’ wholeheartedly supports this project.
The Antonius Community is also dedicated to fostering connection, attentiveness, and looking out for one another—values that align perfectly with the core mission of ‘Ik zie jou!’.
At a time when discussions about newcomers often revolve around conflicting opinions and polarization, these organizations demonstrate that genuine human connection is still possible.
Thanks to their trust, commitment, and support, we are able to bring stories to light that foster connection. We are truly grateful for this.
Photo: Stem in de Stad
Watch the documentary featuring the duos from 'Ik zie jou!' Haarlem
Ambia took part in 'Ik zie jou!' Haarlem
'I am taken aback by the harsh reactions'
Ambia took part in 'Ik zie jou!' Haarlem
'I am taken aback by the harsh reactions'
“To me, it goes without saying that people who arrive here deserve a warm welcome. I am taken aback by the harsh reactions I sometimes encounter when I speak out against the negative portrayal of refugees. I believe that no one is truly free as long as we are not all free.”
More than a museum
The 'I See You!' ('Ik zie jou!') project is organized by the Museum of Humanity, based in Zaandam. The organization brings together portraits and stories of people from all over the world. Through exhibitions, workshops, and various projects, the foundation demonstrates that every human being is valuable—vulnerable, powerful, and inherently human—thereby fostering connection and understanding, both locally and internationally.
The successful 'I See You!' exhibition, featuring newcomers, has previously been held in Zaanstad, Den Helder, and Hoorn. Following its run in Haarlem, the project will travel to other cities, always in collaboration with local municipalities, the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA), organizations supporting Ukrainian refugees, businesses, and various social organizations.
The Museum of Humanity is more than just a museum; we connect people across the globe through stories and portraits. Driven by a mission to counter polarization and to show that every human being is a masterpiece, we organize not only exhibitions but also educational programs and corporate training sessions.
Would you like to bring 'I See You!' to your city? Find out more about this traveling project here.
Ik zie jou! - op reis
Do you have a question about this project? Or would you like to organize 'I See You!' in your city?
Marianna, our program manager, is happy to help you further.
