Zemla Intifada Day
June 17, Tuesday
Historical Background
The holiday commemorates the events of June 17, 1970, when a peaceful demonstration organized by the Harakat Tahrir (Movement for the Liberation of Saguia el-Hamra and Río de Oro) took place in Zemla, a neighborhood in El Aaiún, the capital of Western Sahara. The protest was aimed at demanding independence from Spanish colonial authorities.
The demonstration was violently suppressed by Spanish forces, resulting in the deaths and injuries of several protesters. The leader of the movement, Muhammad Bassiri, was arrested and subsequently disappeared, becoming a symbol of Sahrawi resistance.
Significance
Zemla Intifada Day is considered a key moment in the Sahrawi national liberation movement. It is seen as the beginning of organized resistance against colonial rule and is often regarded as a precursor to the formation of the Polisario Front in 1973, which continues to advocate for Sahrawi self-determination.
Commemorative Activities
On this day, Sahrawis participate in various activities to honor the memory of those who protested and suffered during the Zemla Intifada. These may include:
- Public speeches and educational events about Sahrawi history
- Cultural performances and traditional music
- Ceremonies honoring Muhammad Bassiri and other figures of the resistance
- Political demonstrations and calls for international support for Sahrawi independence
Modern Relevance
Zemla Intifada Day remains a powerful symbol of resistance and national identity for the Sahrawi people. It serves as a reminder of their ongoing struggle for self-determination and the sacrifices made in pursuit of that goal.