In 1997, the Vervoersbond FNV conceived the plan to present an image to Rotterdam as part of the centenary of the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF). This statue is a monument in memory of trade union leader and racism fighter Edo Fimmen (1881-1942), who between the two world wars was chairman of the ITF, founded after the boat workers' strike in Rotterdam in 1896. Fimmen gained great fame as a fighter against racism, fascism and colonial oppression. A passionate idealist, he championed an internationally organized working class to confront the excesses of capitalism. In the monument that the FNV had in mind, the image of Fimmen had to be recognizable. Moreover, it had to radiate its ideas without falling into personality cult. Ben Zegers' design was chosen from three sketch proposals. He has assumed the shape of a lying and an upright boxing glove. Zegers has stylized these metaphors for steadfastness and drive into two geometric-abstract images, in which the portrait of Fimmen and profile has been incorporated. The title Free sailing! is derived from a magazine for German railway workers: "Fahrt Frei". Zegers wanted to give the image many associations: tackling, wrapping, waving goodbye, lugging, fighting, rebellion and resistance, a safe, an oven, a chimney, a fender and a fighting machine. For the location of the monument, the Buizenpark on Katendrecht has been chosen: a place by the water, the harbor and the working class neighborhood. Free sailing! Monument for the trade union leader Edo Fimmen was unveiled during the European Year against Racism on 28 November 1998.
In 2025, the year commemorating the 80th anniversary of liberation, a special edition of the honorary medallion was designed in a limited run of 50 pieces, commissioned by the ITF, FNV Havens, and FNV Lokaal. The medallion depicts Edo Fimmen's profile, as also incorporated in the sculpture. Read more this folder More information about the medallion, which was also designed by Ben Zegers. The medallion was developed simultaneously with the story collection. Sail freely on Katendrecht, a publication created by Hans Abelman in which artist Ben Zegers, FNV members, Katendrecht residents, historians, and various stakeholders share their stories. The medallion was presented to the ITF on April 27, 2025, and to the FNV on the eve of Workers Memorial Day.
