Among the 15 feature films chosen to compete in this prestigious national festival is a whodunit film titled, “A Corpse on The Shore”,” directed by Aksel Rifman. The film will be competing for festival awards alongside 14 other feature films.

Produced by “Aras” entertainment with solely self funding, and directed and written by Aksel, the film is set in the Rif region and is performed in the local Amazigh language of the Rif. The story begins when a man’s corpse is found on the shores of Marchica lagoon. Officer Saïd, known as one of the city’s best detectives, is called to the scene. Upon his arrival, he discovers that the forensic police team and his colleague Narjiss have already begun investigating. He is informed that it appears to be an accidental death, as no evidence suggests foul play. However, Saïd’s instincts and experience lead him to suspect otherwise, especially when it is revealed that the body belongs to an architect named Badr.

Saïd starts questioning those closest to Badr, discovering that on the night before his death, Badr attended a gathering with four friends: a real estate developer, another architect, and a civil engineer. Saïd decides to interrogate each of them, as well as Badr’s wife, individually.

Each witness gives a different version of what happened that Saturday night, with all stories agreeing only that Badr left the gathering intoxicated. As the film unfolds, new clues and details emerge, gradually unraveling the mystery behind Badr’s death.

The film features a talented cast of notable actors from the Rif region. Saïd El Marssi plays the role of Officer Saïd, while Farouk Aznabet portrays Haj Hollande. Abdelouhaid Zaouki takes on the role of Badr, the architect, with Adnan Rachdi as the engineer Wael, and Tarek Assalhi playing Kamal. Chaymae El Allaoui appears as Badr’s wife, a dentist, while Mourad Mjalled portrays a police officer. Moroccan actor Ez Elarab Kaghat plays a retired officer, and Nomidia plays Badr’s personal secretary. Other prominent actors include Hoyam Lamsisi as a policewoman, Hakim Chamlal as Ali, and the experienced actresses Samira Maslouhi, Wafaa Miras, and Islam Arif in supporting roles.

The inclusion of “A Corpse on The Shore”” in the festival highlights the growing recognition of rural films and the unique cultural narratives emerging from the Rif region. The film is expected to captivate audiences with its suspenseful storyline and strong performances.

PaLM 2 represents a major leap in AI technology, providing more nuanced and precise translations by understanding the context and subtleties of different languages. This update not only broadens the scope of Google Translate but also underscores Google’s commitment to making its services more inclusive and accessible.

Among the newly added languages is Tamazight, an old language spoken by the Amazigh  populations, native of North Africa. Tamazight features numerous dialects, but its written form is generally mutually understandable. Google Translate now supports both the Latin and Tifinagh scripts for Tamazight, ensuring that users can translate and understand content in this language more effectively.

The company noted the diverse usage levels of these languages. Some languages boast over 100 million speakers, while others are preserved despite lacking active speakers. Incorporating new languages involves considering regional varieties, dialects, and spelling standards, ensuring a comprehensive and accurate translation experience.

“We prioritize the most commonly used varieties of each language,” stated Issac Caswell, a software engineer at Google.

This update is part of Google’s broader initiative to support 1,000 languages through AI, a commitment they announced in 2022. The inclusion of these 110 languages represents over 614 million speakers, roughly 8% of the world’s population, highlighting the significant impact of this update.

The integration of these languages into Google Translate involves careful consideration of regional varieties, dialects, and spelling standards to ensure a comprehensive and accurate translation experience. “We prioritize the most commonly used varieties of each language,” explained Issac Caswell, a software engineer at Google. For example, the Romani language, which has many dialects across Europe, is represented in its Southern Vlax Romani form, with elements from Northern Vlax and Balkan Roman dialects.

The effort to include Tamazight in Google Translate was bolstered by a petition initiated by La Rando, a French organization led by Moroccan founder Karim Akachar, in 2019. The petition, which garnered over 36,579 signatures, urged Google to integrate Tamazight into its translation service. In March of the same year, the Google Translate team acknowledged the petition, stating it had been “taken into account.”

With these advancements, Google Translate is not only enhancing its utility for a wider audience but also playing a crucial role in preserving and promoting lesser-known languages.

Critics have voiced concerns over the Moroccan government’s relentless focus on Arabization, highlighting the neglect of the Amazigh language in educational and cultural programs. Despite its status as an official language and a vital component of Moroccan heritage, Amazigh continues to be sidelined, raising questions about the state’s priorities and its commitment to linguistic diversity.

The decision to prioritize Arabic instruction for the Moroccan diaspora has ignited debate over the government’s motivations and ideological underpinnings. Some argue that the emphasis on Arabization overlooks the linguistic and cultural realities of Moroccans living abroad, many of whom predominantly speak Amazigh or European languages.

Moreover, critics contend that the state’s fixation on Arabic proficiency as a prerequisite for patriotism and belonging to the homeland is misguided. They assert that Amazigh, with its rich cultural heritage and widespread use among Moroccan expatriates, deserves equal recognition and support in educational initiatives.

The controversy underscores broader issues surrounding language policy and cultural identity in Morocco. Despite the constitutional recognition of Amazigh as an official language, its implementation has been slow, with regulatory laws lagging behind. This delay reflects deeper tensions within Moroccan society regarding the recognition and promotion of linguistic diversity.

Advocates for Amazigh language and culture argue that its preservation is crucial not only for the Moroccan diaspora but also for fostering a more inclusive and pluralistic society within Morocco itself. They emphasize the importance of teaching Amazigh civilization and history to diaspora youth, highlighting its role in promoting tolerance, openness, and moderation.

Amidst calls for greater respect for linguistic and cultural rights, concerns have been raised about the implications of the government’s Arabization policy. Some fear that marginalizing Amazigh language and culture could exacerbate feelings of alienation and disenfranchisement among Moroccan expatriates, hindering efforts to foster a sense of belonging and identity.

As the debate intensifies, stakeholders urge the Moroccan government to reevaluate its language policies and take meaningful steps towards recognizing and promoting linguistic diversity. By embracing Amazigh language and culture alongside Arabic, Morocco can reaffirm its commitment to inclusivity, tolerance, and respect for all its citizens, both at home and abroad.

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Historical Roots:
Yennayer, rooted in the agricultural calendar, marks the beginning of the year for the Amazigh people. It carries echoes of ancient agrarian practices and the observation of natural cycles, embodying a deep connection to the land and its bounty. As the Amazigh communities celebrate, they pay homage to their ancestors and the enduring spirit of resilience that has defined their history.

Cultural Traditions:
Yennayer celebrations are a vibrant display of Amazigh culture, featuring traditional music, dance, and culinary delights from various regions such as Rif, Atlas, Souss, and Kabyle. The festivities often showcase the unique diversity within the Amazigh community, fostering a sense of unity and shared heritage. Intricate traditional attire, lively music, and spirited dances characterize the cultural tapestry of Yennayer celebrations.

Amazigh new year event in Boston:
Since the early 2000s, the vibrant Amazigh community in the Boston area. has come together to celebrate a tradition that stands as a testament to resilience and unity. This event has weathered the test of time, becoming a cherished annual occurrence that showcases the rich history and cultural significance of the Amazigh people. As participants gather, they not only partake in festivities but also contribute to the preservation and promotion of Amazigh heritage. It’s more than an event; it’s a living testament to the enduring spirit and traditions that bind the Amazigh community in the U.S. together.

This year, the celebrations in Boston promise an extraordinary experience featuring bands from Rif, Souss and the Kabyle region with special guest of Akli D, a renowned artist known for capturing the essence of Amazigh music. Hailing from the Kabyle region, Akli D’s performance is anticipated to be a highlight of the festivities, weaving together traditional melodies with contemporary expressions.

Preserving Heritage:
Yennayer is not only a time of celebration but also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of preserving Amazigh heritage. Efforts are made to pass down traditional practices, stories, and linguistic richness to younger generations, ensuring that the cultural flame continues to burn brightly for years to come.

As communities in Boston and beyond gear up for the Amazigh New Year celebrations, the anticipation is palpable. Yennayer is not just a moment on the calendar; it’s a celebration of resilience, unity, and the enduring beauty of Amazigh culture. So, come join in the festivities, embrace tradition, and welcome the New Year with open hearts and a spirit of togetherness.

To be a part of this cultural celebration, don’t forget to secure your spot—buy your tickets now and join the Amazigh community on this amazing experience! ticket

Happy Yennayer!

The MENA Category: Oversimplifying Complexity

The MENA category lumps together countries with vastly different histories, cultures, and languages, which diminishes the rich diversity within the region. By grouping North Africa with the Middle East, indigenous North Africans are often overlooked, leading to their erasure. North African countries, such as Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, and Egypt, have distinct cultural and historical backgrounds that should be recognized and respected and have a majority of Amazigh populations.

Erasure of Indigenous North Africans

One of the significant consequences of the MENA category is the erasure of indigenous North Africans. These populations, which include the Amazigh people, have inhabited North Africa for thousands of years and have distinct identities, languages, and cultures. However, by grouping North Africa with the Middle East, the focus tends to shift towards Arab cultures and language, overshadowing the rich heritage of the indigenous peoples. This erasure perpetuates a cycle of cultural marginalization and fosters a limited understanding of the region.

Additionally, it chops the African continent further perpetuating the legacies of imperialism and colonization. The Amazigh are in Mali, Niger, Sudan and a MENA category divides Tamazgha or North Africa from the African continent and cultures.

Misinformation and Legacy of Colonization

The MENA category also perpetuates misinformation and reinforces a legacy of colonization. Historically, the categorization of the region as “Middle East” and “North Africa” has been rooted in Western colonial perspectives, focusing on the strategic interests of colonial powers. This legacy continues to impact perceptions and misrepresentations of the region today.

The relationship between the Arab and Amazigh people is indeed complex

It is important to note that the relationship between Arab and the Amazigh people is very complex. Arab culture has been promoted and maintained by the political and social structures that have historically been in place. Arab rulers and elites often held positions of power and influence, and Arab culture was often associated with status and privilege. This historical context has contributed to the prominence of Arab culture in various spheres though a minority as the Amazigh are a majority in North Africa. Furthermore, the Middle East itself is diverse ethnically.
In past years, there has been a growing resurgence of revitalization of Amazigh culture and identity led by the Amazigh movement.

Moving forward with the categorization of MENA promotes Arab culture at the expense of Amazigh cultural revitalization efforts, as historical and political power dynamics have often marginalized the native Amazigh culture in favor of the Arabization agenda. This is reflects exclusivity and will ignite ongoing conflicts.

Moving Towards Inclusion: The Need of two separate categories

To address the harmful consequences of the MENA category, an alternative approach is to adopt the solution of two different categories. By separating the Middle East and North Africa into two distinct categories, we can foster inclusivity and provide a more accurate representation of each region. This recognizes the unique identities of both the Arab people and the Amazigh people of North Africans.

Embracing the two categories allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the cultural, linguistic, and historical diversity within each region. It also acknowledges the distinct experiences and struggles of indigenous North Africans and does not chop Africa.

In conclusion, the MENA category’s harmful effects on indigenous North Africans cannot be overlooked. By separating the category and adopting a one category for each region, we can foster a more inclusive and accurate representation of the region. This approach avoids erasure, acknowledges diverse identities, and challenges the legacy of colonization. It is crucial to move away from broad categorizations and work towards an understanding that respects and celebrates the unique cultures and histories of all the peoples of each region.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Amazigh culture is the calendar, which is based on a historical event rather than a religious one. The Amazigh calendar begins at 950 B.C.E., corresponding to the year when the Amazigh king Shoshenq I reigned over the Pharaohs and the unification of Libya with Egypt. This means that the coming year of “2023” is actually the year 2973 in the Amazigh calendar. The date for Yennayer falls on January 14th (or sometimes the 12th or 13th) based on the Julian calendar, which was previously used to mark agricultural cycles.

The night before Yennayer is known as Thabbourth Aswegas, or the “door to the new year.” On this day, Amazigh communities gather to prepare traditional dishes and celebrate with music, dancing, and shared food and sweets. One of the most popular dishes served on Yennayer is couscous, often with seven vegetables, and a date pit is hidden in the couscous. The person who finds the date pit is believed to have good luck for the year ahead. Another traditional dish is tagulla, made of cracked corn or barley along with Argan oil, honey, and butter.

While each region has its own unique variations on the traditions of Yennayer, there is a central theme of bringing good luck and fortune to the year ahead. In addition to observing the new year, Yennayer is also a time for Amazigh people to come together and celebrate their shared identity, which has for decades been repressed in many parts of North Africa. This opportunity to honor their collective heritage is important for strengthening their communities and welcoming others to join in sharing the rich indigenous culture of North Africa.

In recent years, the Amazigh community in New England has grown significantly, and Eastern Massachusetts now has the highest density of Amazigh living in the United States. It is no surprise, then, that the biggest Amazigh event in the country is taking place in the city of Boston. The Amazigh American Network Organization (AANO) is hosting a celebration to mark the Amazigh New Year 2973 at the Center for Arts at the Armory in Somerville, Massachusetts on January 14, featuring live music from Kabyle region in northern Algeria, the Rif and Souss region of Morocco, traditional tea along with pastries will be served all day long as well as many other surprises.

This is a not-to-be-missed event for anyone interested in learning more about the rich indigenous culture of North Africa. Whether you are an Amazigh individual, family or simply someone interested in learning more about this ancient culture, the Amazigh New Year event offers a unique opportunity to celebrate and learn more about one of the world’s most ancient cultures. This exclusive, once-a-year event is always a fan favorite, so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance and take advantage of this opportunity to save 20% off of general admission by using the coupon code :AMAZIGH

As we approach the Amazigh New Year 2973, we wish Aseggas Ameggaz, or “happy year,” to all. May this year bring you joy, success, and all the blessings you desire. ⴰⵙⴳⴳⵯⴰⵙ ⴰⵎⴳⴳⴰⵙ.

$24 Deal Ticket are available at : www.eventbrite.com
(Free Admission for Kids under 15 years old)

The Algerian ruling elite has accused MAK for the devastating wildfires that killed at least 65 people in the Kabyle region, east of Algiers, last month which hit mostly Amazigh-speaking Kabyle provinces including Tizi Ouzou and Bejaia. MAK, whose leadership is based in France, has denied any involvement. “The recent crackdown on peaceful dissent follows a long-established pattern of efforts to silence and repress the Kabylian population.” said  Mr. Ferhat Mehenni, President of MAK.

In total, at least 40 activists are currently in detention in Algeria in connection with the peaceful movement, according to the National Committee for the Liberation of Detainees (CNLD), a local watchdog group.

These prosecutions are the latest in the Algerian authorities’ ongoing repression of rights defenders and targeting of journalists and prominent figures in MAK. However, this is the first time that terrorism-related charges are being used. Other charges include also “offending public bodies” and “defamation”, under articles 146 and 298 of the Penal Code.

In response, MAK have recently filed a complaint with the International Criminal Court (ICC) in relation to the systematic repression of Kabylians, which also highlights the acute failures of the Algerian authorities response to Covid-19 and the recent forest fires in the region which killed dozens.

Meanwhile, dozens of members from the Kabyle community living in diaspora and their counterpart supporter from the Amazigh community have held several rallies around the world including Paris and Montreal to denounce the ongoing crackdown on MAK activists and their supporters by Algerian authorities.

Algeria is ranked 146th out of 180 countries and territories on the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) World Press Freedom Index.

Several villages and neighborhoods were surrounded by wild fires, while Berbere TV announced that more than 65 people have died from burns and smoke inhalation. In some places, the Kabyle people have found themselves fighting the fires on their own, spraying water through hoses and buckets. The fires also led to mass deaths of livestock in rural areas while locals struggled to lead their herds to safety.

Wildfires are common in Kabyle’s Mediterranean and nearby regions during the arid summer months, although some forest fires have been blamed on arson including this current wildfire where there has been rumors about the central ruling regime starting the wildfires.

“Only criminal hands can be behind the simultaneous outbreak of about 50 fires across several towns,” said Assaid. k who had fled with his family from the village of Azagza. Other witnesses have also noticed some unusual activities of two military Helicopters flying over the Kabyle region only few hours before the wildfires broke out.

The Amazigh-speaking region of Kabyle is the most politicized region in Algeria, with a heightened awareness of its distinct identity. The region has a history of agitation against the central government dating back to the 1960s, soon after Algeria became independent from France. In the 1980s, young Kabyles led a movement for official recognition of the Berber language and culture which drew a repressive regime reaction lasting for many years.

The UN chief expressed his deep condolences to the bereaved families and the government of Niger called on the Nigerien authorities to “spare no effort” in identifying and swiftly bringing the perpetrators to justice.

“The secretary general reaffirms the solidarity and support of the United Nations to the government and people of Niger in their efforts to prevent and combat terrorism, violent extremism and organized crime,” said UN chief.

Guterres urged countries in the Sahel to continue their efforts, in close collaboration with regional organizations and international partners, to address these serious threats to security and stability in the subregion and beyond.

The following are the informations that was gathered by a group of Tuareg human rights activists through testimonies from survivors and close family members.

“I want to shed additional light on the atrocities that took place in Intazayen and Bakorat on Sunday, March 21:”

•  The army contingent stationed in Intikane (25kms away) was alerted soon after the first attack on Intazayen. The army did not show up until the next day.
• The killers attacked Intazayen first and killed 15 people. Then another group attacked Bakorat where they killed 130 people.
• Bodies are still being discovered as the killing spree continued along their path in the area. Even today, two more bodies were found.
• After they killed innocent, unarmed men, women and children; the killers then fled with their livestock.
• They shot 5 camels with calves which had refused to be led away.
• They found some of the victims in the middle of their rituals preparing for prayer; and shot them.
• One woman tried to cover her kids to protect them, and they killed her along with her young kids.
• The killers fled the scene after their carnage, with a car, grains, and all of the provisions they could find.
• They burnt some of the victims and their tents.

On March 15 attackers riding motorcycles killed more than 137 people in coordinated raids on villages in southwestern Niger on Sunday, making it the bloodiest violence to hit the country in years, the government said.

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The goal of #Artmazigh Day was to create a virtual space for Amazigh artists where they could interact with people and share their artwork and stories inspired by Amazigh history and traditions.

“I was inspired by other hashtags on Twitter like #ArtMubarak for Muslim artists,” Safiya Zerrougui, an Amazigh illustrater and character designer based in Canada, who started #Artmazigh, told the media.

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Amazigh meaning “the noble people” are the indigenous people of North Africa who populated the region known as “Tamazgha” -for thousands of years- which extend from the Oasis of Siwa in Egypt to the canary Island in the atlantic ocean.

The Amazigh people have spent decades fighting for cultural recognition in the predominantly-Arab region.  For years, Amazigh activists have been engaged in a battle against oppressive policies while also trying to promote measures that would help preserve and promote Amazigh identity and culture.

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(RT) Calling Amazigh (North-African Indigenous) creatives for #Artmazigh ⵣ!
On November 29-30, let's share our crafts using the hashtag!
Illustrators, writers, photographers, textile artists, game devs etc. are all welcome
Everyone is encouraged to boost!
More info pic.twitter.com/Smter35wYL

— Safiya Z ⵣ (@safifesse) November 1, 2020

As I'm scrolling through #artmazigh my heart fills with joy. Seeing happy, unique, queer and diverse creators who all represent what it's like to be amazigh in their own way is simply amazing.
You're showing me parts of what it means to amazigh which I've never seen before. pic.twitter.com/65TDJgkuvg

— 𝚃𝚒𝚏𝚊 (@Creatifa_art) November 29, 2020

Hey #Artmazigh ! Here's some character sheets I made for a story about a girl who travels to study jinns and the many spirits & creatures she meets along the way pic.twitter.com/rs2rzxEloe

— Safiya Z ⵣ (@safifesse) November 29, 2020

Azul #Artmazigh I’m an Algerian artist who loves creating and illustrating characters ! Here’s some work inspired by our stunning culture pic.twitter.com/TfVVf9F43X

— Serine (@SerineZaa) November 29, 2020

#artmazigh weewoo, here’s two of my best pieces for the event pic.twitter.com/vxupcRSi6k

— Tita (@titaslmia) November 29, 2020

Azul I am Noure, an Algerian Amazigh who sometimes draws! I especially love drawing women, linocut and paper art.

Looking at this hashtag feels me with joy, merci, sahit!

#artmazigh pic.twitter.com/InvyGI5nuQ

— AIT • Noure VPN (@GeorgeLeRenard) November 29, 2020

my name is Samy, I am 17 years old and I am an Algerian artist living in France, at the moment I am working on a large series of illustrations highlighting the Algerian culture #Artmazigh pic.twitter.com/FSzmRMeGWG

— Jean Kirstein supremacy !!!!! (@s_rvn_) November 29, 2020

Helloo #Artmazigh !
I'm Momo, and I'm a Sudanese artist livin in Leeds, here is some of my current work! pic.twitter.com/APumrZ6kcA

— Morrigan's in stinky Old Yharnam #BLM (@FullMetal_Momo) November 29, 2020

My ig : @ brolydiary

— Lydia (@punchheuse) November 30, 2020

Azul fellawen! #Artmazigh pic.twitter.com/lWu4osglgr

— ⴽⵓⵙⵉⵍ (@kusscous) November 30, 2020

Good morning if it's morning there!
I'm so happy that you liked my draws I felt amazing waking up at all the likes
Here is some of my artwork #Artmazigh pic.twitter.com/LzsU3Cz50F

— ⵣ Amel ⴰⵎⴻⵍ (@Amel65282421) November 30, 2020

Many users admired the hashtag for giving Amazigh artists to showcase their cultural prides, as  well as an opportunity foreigners to learn more about the Amazigh heritage.

just found out about #Artmazigh and this just made my day! Finding other artists having the same culture as me made me so happy omg (also all of them are so talented!! please check out this hashtag and support these artists!!)

— Nyla (@_nylanyl_) November 30, 2020

bless #Artmazigh tag, discovered so many talented and underrated artists and i hope they’ll all get the recognition that they deserve ! keep checking it out yall and goodnight

— Tita (@titaslmia) November 30, 2020