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Jeunesse Maghrébine

Jeunesse Maghrébine, initially founded as the Association de la jeunesse marocaine en Belgique (AJMB) in 1976, is an organization created by Nordine Dezairi and a group of young Moroccan expatriates in Brussels. The association emerged in the context of the socio-economic and political challenges faced by young Moroccans in Belgium. The primary aim of the association was to raise awareness among Moroccan youth about the socio-economic and political realities of their situation in Belgium. The association committed itself to providing educational and cultural services, including a homework school to assist young people with their studies, particularly in Dutch and English. It also organized conferences and meetings to foster exchange and solidarity between community members and other Belgian social movements. AJM addressed issues such as racism, employment discrimination, and social injustice, advocating for unity and collective action as means of struggle. From its inception, the association was marked by the active participation of women, who played a crucial role in leading discussions and challenging traditional gender roles. This provided young Moroccan women with a platform to express their concerns and engage actively in the fight against social injustices. Despite financial challenges and political pressures, the association succeeded in mobilizing and inspiring a generation of young Moroccans in Belgium. It organized various cultural and social events, strengthening the sense of community and solidarity. In 1980 and 1984, it held concerts featuring three famous Moroccan music groups: Lemchaheb, Nass el Ghiwane, and Jil Jilala. These events were significant gatherings for the Maghreb community in Brussels, demonstrating the association’s ability to attract large crowds. Moreover, the association served as a launching pad for future leaders and activists, who later made significant contributions to the socio-political landscape in Brussels. In 1983, the association evolved into Jeunesse Maghrébine, continuing its mission until its dissolution in 2008. The experiences and lessons from this period laid the groundwork for future activism and community organization within the Maghreb diaspora in Belgium. The struggles and successes of Jeunesse Maghrébine stand as a testament to the spirit of resistance and the quest for equality and justice. Jeunesse Maghrébine was a crucial movement that enabled young Moroccans in Brussels to fight for their rights and build a better future. Their decade of activism, from 1976 to 1986, reflects their resilience and commitment to social change, leaving a lasting impact on their community.