Originally from North Africa, the Amazigh people, sometimes known as Berbers, have spent decades fighting for cultural recognition in the predominantly Arab region. For years, Amazigh activists have engaged in a battle against oppressive policies while trying to promote measures that would help preserve Amazigh identity. Despite recent successes, however, …
Read More »Monthly Archives: January 2019
Amazighs of Morocco push for official recognition of their new year | Arts and culture
The rally marks the continued efforts of the Amazigh identity movement to gain recognition from the government. Hundreds of people gathered in Rabat, the capital of Morocco, to mark the start of the Amazigh New Year with a sit-in, calling on the state to make the celebration a national day. …
Read More »Ring in 2969 with the Ottawa Amazighs
Inside a small community center in Gatineau, women in brightly embroidered dresses sing songs of the Amazighs, the indigenous people of North Africa. The women are preparing for a performance this Saturday to celebrate Yennayer, New Years Day for Amazighs, also known as Berbers. January 12 marks the start of …
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