The Moroccan Green March was a peaceful mass demonstration by 350,000 Moroccan nationals on November 6th, 1975. Each year, Moroccans in the EU commemorate Green March Day with cultural events, parades, and gatherings celebrating their heritage and unity. These celebrations often include traditional music, dance performances, and exhibitions showcasing the Green March's history and significance.
For the Moroccan community, this day serves as a powerful reminder of their shared history and the importance of solidarity in preserving their cultural identity abroad. The community looks up to this event for leading to Morocco's reunification of its ancestral land from France and Spain. Since Morocco's political and social changes have changed over the past 10 years, how the event is perceived and how Moroccans show their national pride has changed as well.
History of the Green March Day
The story of the Green March dates back to 1975 when King Hassan II called upon the Moroccan people to peacefully march into the disputed territory of Western Sahara. It was a strategic move aimed at asserting Morocco's claim to the region without starting a war.
As it demonstrated the power of peaceful protest and collective action, the Green March not only strengthened Morocco's territorial claims but also fostered a sense of national unity and patriotism among Moroccans.
The event marked a turning point in Moroccan history, as it marked the country's struggle for sovereignty and territorial integrity. Many people's feelings about the Green March are based on its religious implications and importance for Moroccan nationalism based on peaceful demonstrations of Allah's teachings.
The Green March Day is celebrated in Morocco with parades, speeches, and reenactments of the historic march. The day's significance is celebrated around the world with cultural festivals and events.
Families and friends living overseas can reconnect, reinforcing their ties to their homelands and sharing their pride in cultural heritage. Moroccan nationals do this as a way to show pride in their ancestral lands and their history as an independent country.
The Moroccan Community in the EU
Over 5.1M Moroccan nationals live in the 15 member states of the European Union. These demographics are based on citizens legally working in the EU. In France, there are 1.9 million Moroccan migrants, followed by the Netherlands and Belgium with 700K. This is the biggest group of non-Western migrants in Europe (European Commission, 2023).
Moroccans in the EU maintain strong ties to their homeland through cultural events and celebrations like Green March Day that celebrate their heritage. Events like these give community members a chance to connect, share traditions, and maintain a sense of Moroccan identity.
Additionally, many Moroccans in the EU still practice their religious beliefs and participate in ceremonies and rituals that are important to their culture. As a result, they stay connected to their homeland and feel like they belong to a community.
It's clear from the Green March demonstration and modern society that the Moroccan Diaspora cultivates strong social networks to stay connected to their homeland. This includes maintaining relationships with family and friends in Morocco through the use of different ways of online communication and international calling apps - such as talk360 - as well as participating in community organizations and clubs that provide a sense of belonging and support.
The Moroccan population in the EU also continues to speak Arabic and consume Moroccan media, such as television shows, movies, and music. In addition, some Moroccans regularly send remittances to their families and communities back home. In addition to these visits, financial contributions help maintain strong ties between the Moroccan community in the EU and their homeland.
Link between the Green March Day and the Moroccan Community in the EU
In several ways, the Green March Day helps create a sense of community among Moroccans in the EU. As a result of this shared history, they celebrate their national identity and pride and create a sense of unity and solidarity.
It is an opportunity for Moroccans living in the EU to connect and strengthen their social bonds. A community event or simply talking to family can help achieve this. Despite the availability of multiple channels, Moroccans still have trouble connecting with their families abroad, especially in areas where there's low internet penetration and connection.
Talk360 prides itself on being accessible even in places with limited internet access, making it possible to maintain communication no matter where you are. This is why we help you make calls abroad, while also giving you low-cost rates and quality calls. The app is very easy to use, which makes it easy for people of all ages to use, great for connecting with family and friends.
Impact of the Green March Day on the Moroccan Community in the EU
Being away from home can cause people to feel isolated and homesick. Morocco's diaspora in the EU can showcase their cultural heritage and traditions on Green March Day. By participating in parades, concerts, and other cultural events, they can share their culture with the world. This helps their culture to be better understood and appreciated.
Talk360 knows how important it is to remain in touch with home, especially on days like today. It allows Moroccans in the EU to learn about their heritage by reconnecting with their roots. The Green March Day strengthens their emotional bond with Morocco and reinforces their cultural identity. This celebration acts as a bridge between their current lives in the EU and their heritage, ensuring that Moroccan culture continues to thrive across generations.
In conclusion, Green March Day serves as a symbol of unity and community for Moroccans in the EU. It allows them to celebrate their shared heritage and history while creating national pride and solidarity. This annual commemoration not only brings together the Moroccan community in the EU but also allows them to showcase their cultural traditions and values to the wider community.
As Moroccans in the EU celebrate Green March Day, they can strengthen their social bonds, maintain their connections to their homeland, and reaffirm their cultural identity, ensuring Moroccan culture will survive and thrive across borders.
