Je mag me alles vragen met Dalilla Hermans

·1 hr 1 min·5 clips

Dalilla Hermans' biological mother saved Tutsis in Rwanda, while her adoptive mother welcomed her into a Belgian village, shaping her complex identity.

The episode begins with host Chris Keulemans introducing Dalilla Hermans, detailing her background: her biological mother Agnes helped Tutsis in Rwanda, and her adoptive mother Lia raised her in a Belgian village. Hermans is a mother of three, married to Willem, and active in various media. Keulemans explains the format: he asks most questions, but Hermans can veto two, and she will pose a question to the next guest, Lale Gül. They start with a question from previous guest Amir Bouchary: 'What gives you hope?' Hermans answers that hope comes from people's innate goodness, illustrated by a train incident where passengers collectively cared for a stranger. Keulemans then asks if she ever considers emigrating due to racism in Belgium. Hermans admits she and Willem have discussed it, especially during difficult times, but factors like community and escape routes to Spain and Rwanda provide stability. The conversation shifts to what makes a place home. Hermans emphasizes community and positive neighborhood vibes, sharing that she left her first house in Berchem due to racist neighbors but now feels at home in Sint-Cruis, Bruges, where neighbors are supportive. Keulemans inquires about her time in the Catholic youth movement KSJ, which she recalls positively but acknowledges can foster right-wing sentiments, as depicted in her book 'Blackout'. They discuss youth councils in Flanders, with Hermans noting their declining influence. Hermans reflects on her public role, mentioning both inspiration and fear she may cause others, and the toll on activists during movements like Black Lives Matter. She advocates focusing on micro-level actions rather than macro politics. The topic turns to her Rwandan heritage; Hermans visited Rwanda in 2011, learned about Belgium's colonial role in the genocide, and felt anger. She explains she has identified more as a black woman than Rwandese, influenced by Afro-American culture, but is now exploring her Rwandese identity in a forthcoming book. Hermans briefly touches on her unknown biological father, expressing unresolved grief. In the Q&A segment, an audience member asks how she finds rest amid her busy life; Hermans says she rests by sleeping in and spending time with family. Keulemans asks about financial pressures as the sole earner; Hermans describes the strain but prioritizes happiness over economic smartness. He also asks how her thoughts form; she says ideas emerge through conversations. Another audience question criticizes a tax increase on books in the Netherlands, which Hermans opposes. Finally, Hermans prepares a question for Lale Gül about dealing with constant threats, and Keulemans gives her a symbolic key as a gift.

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from deBuren