Since 1980, the 20 the day of April has been celebrated in all Tamazight-speaking regions of Algeria. The symbolic date marks popular discontent that erupted into violent demonstrations against the governmental decision not to recognize their identity. After 26 years, Tamazight language is now recognized as a national language, studied by hundreds of thousands of schoolchildren.
After 26 years of waiting, the Tamazight language is today recognized as a national language, studied by hundreds of thousands of schoolchildren.
In reality, the Amazigh movement has its roots in the1940s when activating militants such as Imache Amar, M'barek Ait Menguelet, Ouali Benai, and Khalifati Mohand Amokrane called for Algeria's Amazigh dimension to be given due recognition.
Since then, the identity issue has continued to pass from generation to generation in a continually-fluctuating political climate. During the 1970s, high school students, university students and even emigrants played their part in steps to promote Tamazight culture and language. At this time, several circles and forums existed, making a great contribution to the awareness-raising process.
The popular discontent arising from this identity awareness-raising had risen to such a level that it was no longer possible for the Algerian press to ignore it. On 20 March 1980, El Moudjahid reported on the movement for the first time. Following the report, the "Amazigh Spring" was born, and is celebrated by Algerian kabylians on 20 April every year.
This time, Kabylia has celebrated the 26th anniversary of the historic date in the calm and serenity above all after President Abdelaziz Bouteflika recognized the Amazigh language as a national language and entity.
20 April was marked in particular by a march in the capital of great Kabylia.
Apart from the various cultural and social events organized by the distinct Amazigh regions, the day of 20 April was marked in particular by a march in Tizi-Ouzou.
Marchers started out at 11am, following a route from Place of 10 April to Place Matoub Lounes to express their deep commitment to "the Tamazight language becomes an official language in the constitution" and "the effective application of the demands of the El Kseur platform", according to the main placards being carried.