Morocco celebrates National Day of Migrants on August 10, a reminder of the Moroccan Jewish community’s major contributions to the country’s cultural and political fabric.
In an exclusive interview with Barlaman Today, Faïçal Marjani, the head of the “Maroc Coexistence” association, discussed the historical and contemporary roles of Moroccan Jews in maintaining national interests, fostering international communication, and conserving a rich heritage dating back over two millennia.
The Moroccan Jewish community is one of the oldest in the world, with roots dating back 2,500 years. Currently, the community accounts for 14% of the global Jewish population.
According to Marjani, “the Jewish community’s relationship with Morocco is based on deep affection and dedication, not only residence.”
“For Moroccan Jews, Morocco is more than just a homeland; it is a sacred land,” he explained. “This reverence is deeply tied to the numerous mausoleums of Jewish saints reside throughout the country, which symbolize the community’s spiritual and cultural bond with Morocco.”
The Moroccan Jewish community has thrived under King Mohammed VI’s reign. According to Marjani, the King is seen as both “the supreme guarantor of religious freedom” and the defender of Morocco’s rich cultural and religious variety.”
“The King Mohammed VI has ensured that Morocco remains a land where diversity is not just tolerated but celebrated,” Marjani noted.
During periods of political and social upheaval, the Moroccan Jewish community has had a special strong bond with the State.
Marjani considered the Holocaust as a watershed point for the community’s perseverance and loyalty. “While Jews across Europe experienced horrible atrocities, Moroccan Jews found refuge with King Mohammed V, who protected them from Nazi persecution.”
“This act of protection by a Muslim king on Muslim land has become a powerful symbol of fraternity and coexistence,” Marjani said.
The president of the association noted that “continuous humanitarian activities of Moroccan Jews, both domestically and internationally, are a reflection of this historical bond,” adding that they have continuously served as ambassadors for Moroccan culture, promoting its values of harmony, unity, and tolerance whether they reside in Israel, the US, Canada, or Europe.
Marjani underlined that “Moroccan Jews have a strong commitment to upholding Moroccan customs and values in all facets of their lives, and that they have an unwavering loyalty to the country.”
He added that the relationship between Morocco and Israel exemplifies Moroccan characteristics such as tolerance, coexistence, and mutual respect, underscoring the Moroccan Jewish community’s particular position in this relationship, which serves as a bridge between the two nations.
“The friendship between Morocco and Israel is built on shared values and a long history of mutual respect,” he told the journalist.
Maroc Coexistence, led by Marjani, plays an important role in deepening these ties through public diplomacy and strategic partnerships.
The group collaborates closely with foreign allies, primarily Israel and the United States, to promote peace and stability in the MENA region. “We are deeply committed to building strong cooperation that can address instability and insecurity effectively,” Marjani added.
A key goal of Maroc Coexistence is to preserve Morocco’s rich cultural legacy, particularly the contributions of its Jewish population.
This is accomplished through the restoration of synagogues and mausoleums, as well as the planning of hiloulot pilgrimages to Jewish saints’ tombs, which draw people from all over the world.
Marjani proudly stated that these initiatives preserve the viability of Moroccan Jewish religious traditions.
The group is also dedicated to promoting interfaith and intercultural communication, both in Morocco and around the world.
By engaging with young people, religious leaders, academics, and civil society leaders, Maroc Coexistence aims to combat extremism, anti-Semitism, and all forms of intolerance. “Our goal is to pass on the legacy of our millennia-old history to the next generation, helping them understand the importance of diversity and dialogue,” Marjani highlighted.
Maroc Coexistence’s efforts are deeply aligned with King Mohammed VI’s objective of promoting Jewish heritage and cultivating a culture of coexistence, which has made Morocco a model of tolerance and conversation.
Marjani commended the King’s measures, which include restoring Jewish temples, establishing museums dedicated to Jewish culture, and establishing government organizations to administer Jewish religious matters.
“His Majesty’s leadership has allowed Morocco to remain a beacon of coexistence in a world often divided by conflict and intolerance,” Marjani concluded.
As Morocco celebrates the National Day of Migrants, it’s clear that the story of the Moroccan Jewish community is one of resilience, pride, and unwavering loyalty. Their contributions, both past and present, are a testament to the enduring spirit of a community that has not only survived but thrived, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s history.
“The Moroccan Jewish community will always be an integral part of the nation’s soul, embodying the values of unity, tolerance, and peace that define Morocco,” Marjani asserted.