Conférences et expositions à travers le pays célébrant la Journée nationale de la Mémoire
National Memory Day Commemorates the 1945 Massacres in Algeria
The General Directorate of National Archives, in partnership with the National Archives Center, has organized a series of events including conferences and exhibitions across Algeria to commemorate National Memory Day, marking the tragedies of May 8, 1945. This initiative, highlighted by Director Mohamed Bounaâma, aims to shed light on the frameworks established by the National Archives pertaining to the documentation of crimes against humanity perpetrated by the French colonial powers against the defenseless Algerian population.
During the opening of a thematic conference titled "The Crimes of French Colonialism in Light of International Laws and Charters," Bounaâma emphasized the importance of these events in documenting historical injustices. The conference was accompanied by an exhibition featuring photographs and documents under the theme "French Colonial Crimes in Algeria 1830-1962, Through the Archives." This exhibition serves to visualize the gruesome methods employed by French occupation forces in their campaign against the Algerian people.
Mohamed Lahcen Zeghidi, president of the Algerian Commission for History and Memory, elaborated on the significance of the May 8 commemorations. He expressed that the establishment of May 8 as National Memory Day by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune is a meaningful homage to the martyrs of Algeria’s liberation struggle.
In a discussion regarding the theme, "Crimes of French Colonialism and Their Classification According to International Charters and Laws," contemporary history professor Rachid Mokadem highlighted how colonial France disregarded pre-existing international frameworks, committing serious crimes against humanity, including genocide, famine, forced relocations, and even nuclear tests, the ramifications of which still affect Algeria today.
Mokadem asserted that documenting the crimes of French colonialism over 132 years serves as a grave commitment to the legacy of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Algeria’s freedom and independence. The exhibition not only showcases images and documents but also includes foreign press articles and other condemnations that supported the Algerian cause during the colonial era.
Overall, these events are designed to contribute to a broader understanding of Algeria’s historical narrative and the enduring impact of colonialism on its people. By educating current and future generations, the National Archives aim to ensure that the sacrifices made for freedom and dignity are never forgotten.
