Independence Day in Western Sahara is commemorated every 27th of February. This holiday marks the day the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), a self-proclaimed state control by the Polisario Front, declared independence in 1976. The proclamation came after the end of Spanish rule, initiating a struggle for sovereignty that continues to this day.
The celebrations of Independence Day in Western Sahara are enriched with cultural expressions that display the resilience and determination of the Sahrawi people. People celebrate with parades, music and dance performances, and are seen wearing traditional dress and waving the national flag. Speeches and rallies are also common, reflecting the ongoing fight for recognition and self-determination of their state.
However, it's important to note that Western Sahara's status as a nation is still a contested issue. While SADR claims to govern the region, most of the territory remains under Moroccan control. Despite political issues underlying the holiday, Independence Day remains a significant event that inspires unity and resistance among the Sahrawi community and advocates for human rights and self-determination around the world.