A recent report by the Office of the US Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, under the Department of State, acknowledged Morocco’s enduring legacy of religious tolerance and its commitment to preserving its multicultural heritage.
The report, released on Wednesday, cited Morocco’s historical role in welcoming refugees from the Iberian Peninsula at the end of the 15th century, and late King Mohammed V’s efforts to protect Jews during World War II.
The report emphasized Morocco’s early steps towards fighting antisemitism, stating that “Morocco is a hallmark of religious tolerance.”
One of the report’s highlights is its praise for Bayt Dakira (House of Memory), a Jewish heritage and cultural space in Essaouira, entrusted with the mission of helping “preserve Morocco’s ancient Jewish heritage by revitalizing a historic synagogue, signifying the country’s goodwill toward its Jewish population.”
The US office pointed out that the site symbolizes “Morocco’s commitment to multiculturalism and the preservation of its rich Jewish heritage.”
It referred also to the Mimouna Association, a Moroccan non-profit organization that “seeks to expand awareness among Moroccan youth regarding the rich Jewish cultural history that has existed in the country for thousands of years.”
As per the report, Mimouna was established by a group of young Muslim students with the goal of safeguarding the Moroccan Jewish heritage, via educational programs focusing on interfaith dialogue and cultural pluralism in the country.
The US report illustrates more than 40 programs, policies, and actions across the world to counter antisemitism.