An international symposium, titled 'Amazigh: History, Memory, and Identity,' has commenced in Gáldar, Gran Canaria, Spain. The event, which began on Wednesday, is organized by the Government of the Canary Islands in collaboration with the Autonomous City of Melilla, the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, and the Gáldar City Council.
The symposium aims to explore and update the historical, linguistic, and cultural realities that shape Amazigh identity. It features sessions covering history, anthropology, archaeology, and linguistics, among other disciplines. The event will continue until Friday, June 13th, at the Archaeological Park Museum of Cueva Pintada in Gáldar.
Fadela Mohatar, the Councilor for Culture and Second Vice President of the local Executive, highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of the symposium. She noted the participation of over twenty international specialists. Melilla, with its unique cultural mix, has much to contribute to this collective reflection, according to Mohatar.
The local government will soon establish a chair dedicated to the Amazigh language and culture. This initiative aims to make Melilla a national and international reference in protecting and promoting this cultural heritage. The symposium also seeks to foster dialogue among researchers and professionals to celebrate the linguistic, cultural, and patrimonial diversity of North Africa and its diasporas.