Agadir 24 | Agadir24
A group of activists and activists in the Amazigh language field raised warning cries against “discrimination and hatred,” against the backdrop of
The spread of digital content containing speeches that belittle the Amazigh and incite against them.
These activists and actors stressed the need for state intervention
To lower its weight and its laws so that the aforementioned digital contents do not affect the coexistence that characterizes Moroccan identity in its origin and depth.
In response to the issue, actor and human rights activist Ahmed Assid revealed that “there are many reasons for the abnormal positions that some people take, even though they do not fit either the logic of the state and its references or the values of the Moroccan Amazigh community.”
Assid explained that the first reason is “the defeats of the Arab and Islamic nationalist movement on the issue of identity, especially after Jadeer’s speech in 2001, through the demarcation of the Amazigh language in the 2011 constitution, then by allocating a regulatory law to it in 2019, and then finally by approving the Amazigh New Year in 2023.”
The human rights activist recorded that the second and most influential reason is “delay in implementing the requirements of the constitution and its new gains,” highlighting that “when a constitution is amended and there is slackness in implementing it in a timely manner (…) the gains return to be questioned, both by those who demanded them and worked on their part.” In order to reach it, or by those who opposed it and were waiting for it.”
The same speaker stressed that “these reasons explain the tensions around the Amazigh language, national identity, women, equality issues, the Code, individual freedoms, and human rights in general.”
The same activist concluded that the most important factors in clearing the atmosphere currently and rationalizing public debate are “decisiveness in choices in order to accelerate the pace of activation of the constitution, along with sensitization and awareness, as together they enable the future outlook to prevail over narrow circumstantial calculations and over the demagoguery of some people.”
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Interview with Nabil Aït Mounir, Amazigh Language Rights Activist
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Nabil. There’s been a growing concern regarding the spread of digital content that belittles the Amazigh community. Can you share your thoughts on this issue?
Nabil Aït Mounir: Thank you for having me. Yes, the situation is quite alarming. We’ve noticed a rise in online content that promotes discrimination and hatred against Amazigh people. This not only affects our community but also threatens the rich tapestry of Moroccan identity that celebrates diversity.
Editor: What specific actions do you believe the state should take in response to this?
Nabil Aït Mounir: We are calling for the government to implement stronger regulations regarding online content. It is vital that laws are enforced to prevent the dissemination of hateful messages that undermine social cohesion. The state must recognize its responsibility in fostering an environment of respect and coexistence among all ethnic groups in Morocco.
Editor: Do you think there is enough awareness about the issues facing the Amazigh community among the general public?
Nabil Aït Mounir: Unfortunately, no. Many people are unaware of the ongoing discrimination that the Amazigh community faces. It is crucial to raise awareness and educate the public about our culture, language, and rights. We hope to engage more citizens in the dialogue and build solidarity across different cultural groups.
Editor: As an activist, what steps is your organization taking to combat these issues?
Nabil Aït Mounir: We are actively working on awareness campaigns and collaborating with various organizations to amplify our voices. Additionally, we are engaging with online platforms to highlight the positive aspects of Amazigh culture and to counteract the hateful narratives that are being spread.
Editor: Thank you, Nabil, for sharing your insights. It’s essential to have these conversations to promote understanding and solidarity within our communities.
Nabil Aït Mounir: Thank you for having me. Let’s continue to work towards a more inclusive society.
Nabil Aït Mounir: The state needs to intervene decisively. This includes enforcing existing laws that protect minority rights and fostering an environment where all cultures, including Amazigh, are celebrated. It would also be helpful to promote educational campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the importance of cultural diversity in Morocco. By doing so, we can discourage the spread of negative content and foster respect and understanding among different groups.
Editor: Ahmed Assid mentioned in a recent discussion that there are significant delays in realizing the constitutional requirements concerning the Amazigh language. How do you see this impacting the community?
Nabil Aït Mounir: The delays in implementing the constitutional rights for the Amazigh language are indeed harmful. They create a sense of disillusionment within our community, as people begin to question whether their rights will ever be fully realized. It can lead to increased tensions and can be exploited by those who oppose our cultural identity. We must see real progress, not just promises.
Editor: What do you think are the essential steps for reconciliation and improving the situation?
Nabil Aït Mounir: First and foremost, there needs to be a commitment from the government to uphold its own constitutional principles. This should be accompanied by a genuine effort to engage with Amazigh representatives and communities to ensure our voices are heard. Awareness campaigns are vital, but we also need concrete actions that demonstrate a commitment to equality and celebrating our shared identity.
Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights, Nabil. It’s clear that there is much work to be done, and we hope to see positive changes in the near future.
Nabil Aït Mounir: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we continue advocating for our rights and the recognition of our cultural heritage. Together, we can build a more inclusive Morocco.