Martyrs' Day, also known as the Day of Remembrance, is a national holiday of immense importance in Tunisia. Observed annually on April 9, the holiday is a tribute to the brave souls who invested their lives to liberate the nation from the yoke of French colonial rule. It underlines the patriotism of those killed during a series of violent clashes with French forces in 1938, prevalent amongst which were the incidents in the cities of Tunis and Sfax.
The holiday is marked by solemn, respectful events across the nation. It is customary for Tunisia's president to visit the martyrs' monument in the Djellaz Cemetery, Tunis, to lay wreaths and offer prayers in the memory of those who were martyred. Schools, government organizations, and private companies organize various events to educate the younger generation about the sacrifices made by their forebears for their country’s freedom.
While Martyrs' Day gives every Tunisian the opportunity to pay their respects to the heroic individuals central to their national history, it also serves as a day for promoting peace, unity, and inclusivity. The holiday has turned into a symbol of the country's relentless struggle for justice and freedom. Lastly, Martyrs' Day is an occasion for Tunisians to renew their allegiance to the principles of democracy, independence, and human rights, which were the cornerstones of their forefathers' struggle.