Madrid, December 16, 2023 – Within the framework of the twentieth anniversary of the International Film Festival of Western Sahara (FiSahara), Abdullah Arabidelegate of POLISARIO Front in Spain and co-founder of the event, has shared highlighted the work of this event for its achievements in the work of disseminating and raising awareness of the Sahrawi cause around the world through cinema.
Arabi has highlighted FiSahara’s two-decade trajectory as a beacon of resistance and an anti-colonial voice that has defied adversity to celebrate 17 editions in the Sahrawi refugee camps and three in Madrid. The festival, in its essence, represents the identity and struggle of the Sahrawi people through cinema and culture.
In his speech during the gala held at the Sala Mirador, Arabi expressed deep recognition to all the people who, from the beginning, clung to the project, as well as to the Sahrawi authorities for their determined drive to promote cinema and art as fundamental tools in the fight for freedom.
«FiSahara is a legacy of commitment, a living testimony of the courage of the Sahrawi people and their determination for emancipation. “It has been a collective effort, a brave commitment to cultural resistance that deserves to be recognized and celebrated,” said Abdulah Arabi.
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The delegate of the POLISARIO Front in Spain stressed the importance of this event in raising awareness about the situation in Western Sahara occupied by Morocco, attracting filmmakers, activists and solidarity people who have expressed their support and solidarity with the Sahrawi cause.
The Sahara returned to Madrid from December 15 to 17 to commemorate its third edition in the capital, marking the 20th anniversary since its inception. Executive Director María Carrión praised the festival’s perseverance over two decades, highlighting its anti-colonial focus.
The inaugural event in the Mirador Room honored Saharawi human rights defenders, including figures such as Aminetu Haidar, Sultana Jaya, Mina Baali and Ghalia Djimi, who shared stories about the situation in the occupied areas of Western Sahara and the violations of rights. perpetrated by the occupation regime.
In it Cinema Studio of the Circle of Fine Arts Arts, FiSahara presented thematic sessions with screenings and debates. “Jaimitna – Stories of women in resistance” explored the female struggle under Moroccan occupation with films such as “Insumisas” and “Wangala”, followed by discussions with the aforementioned activists. “Fenced Lives: The Future Never Comes” addressed the Sahrawi exile and the consequences of the wall that separates the refugee population from their land, presenting films such as “Little Sahara” and “The Hidden Fire,” followed by debates with directors and experts in the matter.
2023-12-17 01:14:48
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