Origin & history
The Green March originated from Morocco's long-standing territorial claim over the Spanish Sahara (now Western Sahara). On November 6, 1975, King Hassan II organized a peaceful march of 350,000 unarmed Moroccan civilians, carrying flags and Quranic verses, to cross the border into the territory. The march was named 'Green' to symbolize Islam (green is a color of Islam). It followed an advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice that recognized historical ties between Morocco and the Sahara but not sovereignty, and a subsequent agreement (Madrid Accords) between Morocco, Spain, and Mauritania. Spain withdrew, and Morocco took control of most of the region, which remains disputed to this day. The event is seen as a triumphant moment of national unity and decolonization.
Customs & traditions
On Green March Day, official ceremonies are held, including speeches by the King and government officials, military parades, and cultural events in major cities. In schools, children participate in patriotic activities, such as drawing flags and reading about the march. Many families display Moroccan flags from their homes and cars. While there are no specific traditional foods, festive meals often include couscous and tagine, shared with family and friends. In the Western Sahara, celebratory gatherings include music and dance performances, particularly the traditional Hassaniya Bedouin dances. Public buildings and streets are decorated with green banners and lights. The day is a public holiday, with government offices, schools, and most businesses closed.
Why it is celebrated
The Green March is celebrated as a symbol of Morocco's national unity, peaceful resistance, and successful reclamation of its southern provinces. It commemorates a bloodless victory that ended Spanish colonial rule and asserted Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. The holiday reinforces a sense of patriotic pride and solidarity, and it is used by the Moroccan government to rally support for its continued claim over the disputed region. For many Moroccans, it represents a historic moment of collective action and the fulfillment of a national aspiration.