Amazigh and the dream of freedom

It was a fact that I didn't know that in Morocco there are Arabs and Berbers. They are different historically, culturally and genetically. DNA is different... The Amazigh are one of the oldest and most fascinating ethnic groups in North Africa, where they have lived for more than 4000 years. They are the original people of the region long before the arrival of the Arabs and despite numerous invasions, their language and culture did not disappear and Tamazight continues to be spoken today.

It was recognized as an official language in 2011, along with Arabic, reinforcing the cultural and historical value of the language. In fact, anyone who has crossed the kingdom's lands cannot help but be surprised by the linguistic capacity of the Moroccans... they all speak Arabic, Darija, which is the national adaptation of Arabic, and Tamazight. Later, many speak French, due to colonization... and many others acquire English and Spanish, due to emigration and tourism. I've never had any difficulty being understood... in fact, French fries, Cristiano Ronaldo and bacalao are the words they say perfectly in Portuguese.

But what does "amazigh" mean? It means free, noble man... and this reflects the strong spirit of independence and resilience that characterizes these people. They have always been practicing transhumance, and even today, it is a reality and we continue to have nomadic families in Morocco who dedicate themselves to pastoralism and who move from region to region to seek the best conditions for their herds.

For decades they were subject to various invasions such as the Romans, the Arabs and the French, but they maintained their cultural identity, based on a matriarchal society where the woman, the mother, is the center of family society. Curious, isn't it? so contrary to what has always been conveyed to us.

In this regard, the Legend of Kahina arises, the warrior queen and one of the most iconic figures in Berber history. He lived in the 7th century and led a revolt against the Arab invasion. It is remembered as a symbol of resistance and bravery among its people, as it delayed the expansion of Islam for several years, protecting its territory.

Impressions... from my contact with the Berber people, I consider them simple, with an easy smile, with vibrant joy that can be seen in their colorful clothes, in their scarves with red or yellow fringes, tied to their heads with a top knot, like the women of Minho, in the immense silver feminine adornments with lots of details, in the energetic music and dances, such as chaabi.

But freedom always has a price, doesn't it? And from what I understand, the Amazigh pay dearly for this freedom...

I was fascinated by their simplicity, and by never giving up that blessed freedom.