In a twist of irony, the Plaque mémoriale Hachimi El Filali commemorates a man who dedicated his life to Moroccan independence, yet it stands on a boulevard once named after a symbol of colonial rule. This plaque, nestled in the heart of Casablanca, honors El Hachemi El Filali, a pivotal figure in Morocco’s struggle for freedom. He was born in Fez in 1912 and passed away in Casablanca in 2008. The Plaque mémoriale Hachimi El Filali isn’t just a piece of metal; it represents a crucial chapter in Moroccan history.
El Filali’s life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to his nation. As a student at Al Quaraouiyine University, he helped organize student resistance against the French occupation. He was instrumental in planning early militant operations, from opposing the Berber Decree to drafting the Moroccan people’s demands. He even played a key role in presenting the Manifesto of Independence. Beyond his political activism, El Filali was a dedicated educator, serving as a teacher and director at free schools in Fez and Casablanca.
El Filali’s influence extended beyond education. He became a member of the National Consultative Council in 1961. In 1963, he was elected to the first Moroccan Parliament representing Casablanca. He served another term in 1977. His political career culminated in his appointment as Minister of Habous and Islamic Affairs in 1981, followed by a role as an advisor to the Royal Cabinet. The Plaque mémoriale Hachimi El Filali stands as a reminder of his multifaceted contributions.
The plaque was unveiled on a significant date in Moroccan nationalist history. It marks the renaming of the former Boulevard Taddart to Boulevard Hachemi El Filali. This act symbolizes the reclaiming of Moroccan identity and the honoring of its national heroes. In 2005, King Mohammed VI awarded El Filali the Ouissam Al Arch, the Order of Grand Officer. This prestigious award recognizes his vital role in the independence movement, alongside other signatories of the Manifesto of Independence. The Plaque mémoriale Hachimi El Filali thus represents not only El Filali’s individual achievements, but the broader struggle for Moroccan self-determination. It invites us to reflect on the sacrifices made for freedom and the enduring legacy of those who fought for it.