A large procession took place in Tizi-Ouzou on April 20 to mark the dual anniversaries of the Berber Spring of 1980 and the Black Spring of 2001. Several thousand citizens participated, spanning various age groups, including young people and families with children, all dressed in traditional Kabyle attire. The event symbolizes the struggle for the reappropriation of Amazigh identity and the fight for freedoms and democracy.
The marchers, predominantly young men and women, began their procession from the Mouloud Mammeri University entrance and continued through the city's streets. They chanted slogans against the government, such as "Pouvoir assassin" and "Ulac smah ulac," accompanied by patriotic songs and tunes by Matoub Lounes, whose portraits were widely displayed. The event showcased a strong sense of solidarity and cultural pride among the participants.
Portraits of Black Spring victims and banners with messages like "Ass-a, azekka, Lwennas yella yella" and "Anwi wigi, d Imazighen" were also visible during the march. At the Nedjar Mohamed hospital, participants observed a minute of silence to honor the victims of the Berber cause and democracy martyrs. The procession proceeded calmly and organized, following the same route as previous Friday marches towards the Bougie Square.
The event was notable for its peaceful nature, with no reported incidents. The security services, present in plainclothes, remained discreet and did not need to intervene. This display of calm and organization underscored the community's determination to commemorate these significant events without confrontation.
The Berber Spring of 1980 and the Black Spring of 2001 are pivotal moments in Algerian history, marking significant struggles for cultural and linguistic rights. The commemoration in Tizi-Ouzou highlights the ongoing importance of these issues for the local population. The participation of families and young children emphasized the intergenerational aspect of the movement.
The slogans and chants during the march reflected a blend of identity claims and broader demands for political freedoms. The presence of Matoub Lounes' portraits and songs underscored the cultural and artistic dimensions of the Amazigh identity movement. This commemoration serves as a reminder of the historical and ongoing struggles of the Amazigh community in Algeria.
The successful and peaceful commemoration of these anniversaries in Tizi-Ouzou demonstrates the community's ability to organize and express their cultural and political demands without major incident. The event will likely contribute to ongoing discussions about identity, culture, and political reform in Algeria.
Key points
- The march in Tizi-Ouzou commemorated the 39th anniversary of the Berber Spring and the 18th anniversary of the Black Spring.
