On January 11th, Morocco celebrates the spirit of freedom that characterizes it. This day commemorates the Manifesto of Independence, a text that brought the entire nation together with a shared objective: independence.

The Manifesto of Independence

The celebration of the Manifesto of Independence takes place every year on January 11th in Morocco. This day holds particular significance for Moroccans, and it is a public holiday, allowing Morocco to commemorate this anniversary of the Manifesto of Independence with dignity.

Moroccans are well acquainted with this chapter of their history, and if you find yourself in Marrakech or Casablanca during this time, you will understand why this commemoration of the Manifesto of Independence is above all a popular celebration. In November 1942, while France was occupied by Nazi Germany, Anglo-American troops landed near Casablanca. This Operation Torch, which indirectly gave rise to the Manifesto of Independence, took place in Morocco, which had been under French protectorate since 1912. A growing awareness led to the creation, in December 1943, of the Istiqlal party, which would draft this Manifesto of Independence.

This document was officially presented on January 11th, 1944, its signatories confident that the war would soon end. They called for the termination of the protectorate and the independence of Morocco.

Although this Manifesto of Independence was not followed by actual emancipation until 12 years later, it nonetheless allowed Morocco to make clear its opposition to French domination.

The Pride of a People

On this day of commemoration of the Manifesto of Independence, all of Morocco remembers the courage and forward-thinking ideals of those who drafted this historic text. They demanded independence at a time when the world was still engulfed in global war. They denounced French colonialism, supported by the presence of Anglo-American troops, who themselves were fighting against Vichy France.

The people of Morocco thus pay tribute to their history through this celebration of the Manifesto of Independence, honoring the courage of their nation, which fought early and before the rest of the world against subjugation to another state. It was, in a sense, an early ambition for decolonization. The Manifesto of Independence remains a day of National Unity, and the country's major cities celebrate the occasion with large popular and festive gatherings. Alongside official speeches from various political parties, a more grassroots celebration unfolds, reminiscent of a national festival.

A festive spirit sweeps through Casablanca, Rabat, Safi, and all Moroccan cities, for it is the spirit of freedom itself that is celebrated on this day of commemoration of the Manifesto of Independence.