Agadir 24 | Agadir24
Many activists and activists are calling on the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs to include the Amazigh language in mosques and ancient religious schools, especially in Friday sermons, in order to activate its role in religious discourse.
These activities stress that introducing the “Imazighen” language into places of worship will contribute to facilitating understanding of religious teachings for the benefit of all members of Moroccan society, especially in rural areas whose people remain attached to their mother tongue.
This comes in parallel with the development and reform that the religious field has witnessed in Morocco, which has made the issue of strengthening the status of the Amazigh language, which Morocco has constitutionalized, in the religious field the focus of the demands of the aforementioned activities.
In this context, the head of the Amazigh League for Human Rights, Abu Bakr Angir, revealed that “the use of the Amazigh language in mosques and ancient scientific schools in Morocco is a necessary and essential matter, especially in areas whose people do not know Arabic.”
Unger explained, “The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs is required to invite preachers to use Amazigh in their Friday sermons and in their religious lessons to explain the contents of Islamic jurisprudence and bring worship closer to religious people in an easy and smooth way.”
The same speaker stressed that “it is unthinkable for a jurist, preacher, or guide to speak about basic and vital life or religious matters for citizens in a standard Arabic language that is not understood by everyone,” stressing that “religious sermons must be delivered in the original language that the recipients understand.”
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**Interview with Dr. Khadija Ben Saleh, Cultural Anthropologist and Amazigh Activist**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Ben Saleh. There’s been growing momentum around the inclusion of the Amazigh language in official communications and education in Morocco. Can you elaborate on why this is so important?
**Dr. Ben Saleh:** Absolutely! The Amazigh, or Berbers, are the indigenous people of Morocco, and their language is a core part of their cultural identity. Including the Amazigh language in official contexts recognizes the rich heritage and contributions of the Amazigh community, which have often been overlooked. It would promote linguistic diversity and help preserve this ancient language for future generations.
**Interviewer:** There have been calls for the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs to take action. What specific changes are activists hoping to see?
**Dr. Ben Saleh:** Activists are urging the ministry to incorporate the Amazigh language into religious education and public signage, as well as making it available in schools as part of the national curriculum. This would not only help in educating young Amazigh speakers but also foster respect and understanding among all Moroccan citizens regarding their diverse cultural backgrounds.
**Interviewer:** What challenges do you see in this process of integration?
**Dr. Ben Saleh:** One major challenge is the historical marginalization of the Amazigh language and culture in Morocco. Many people are unaware of its significance, and this can lead to resistance from some quarters. Additionally, there may be logistical challenges in training teachers and creating educational materials that support Amazigh language instruction.
**Interviewer:** In your view, what impact would the official recognition of the Amazigh language have on Moroccan society as a whole?
**Dr. Ben Saleh:** Recognizing the Amazigh language would promote national unity and inclusivity, as it acknowledges the diverse identities that make up our society. It could enhance intercultural dialogue and understanding, allowing for a richer narrative of Moroccan history and culture. Ultimately, it’s about building a more equitable society where all voices are heard and valued.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Ben Saleh, for your insights and for advocating for the Amazigh community. It’s clear that language and cultural recognition are vital for a cohesive society.
**Dr. Ben Saleh:** Thank you for having me! It’s a pivotal moment for the Amazigh people, and I’m optimistic about the positive changes ahead.
