"Freedom in Action," Hichem Ben Ammar's Documentary, Offers Powerful Antidote to Racism

A powerful new documentary, "La liberté en acte" (Freedom in Action), directed by Hichem Ben Ammar, is set to make waves by bringing the often-overlooked experiences of Tunisia's Black community to the forefront. Scheduled for screening at the 8th edition of the Gabès Cinéma Fen festival, this 60-minute film promises a sincere and unvarnished look at a community that has historically been marginalized and subjected to discrimination.

“

Freedom in Action is a remarkable documentary

The documentary delves into the complex history of racial segregation in Tunisia, a nation that proudly abolished slavery in 1846 under Ahmed Bey, becoming the first Arab-Muslim country to do so. Despite this progressive historical milestone, the film underscores that the Black community continues to face societal rejection, verbal attacks, and deep-seated prejudice. "La liberté en acte" meticulously documents this ongoing struggle, drawing on the insights of academics, historians, and experts who provide a scientific perspective on the issue.

“

The history is laden with preconceived notions of a community that feels marginalized and discriminated against.

Through interviews with scholars such as Mabrouk Manaï, Taoufik Ben Ameur, and Moncef Abdeljalil, among others, the film revisits the painful history of the Black slave trade and the enduring hardships faced by the community through the ages. It also gives voice to contemporary activists and artists, including poet Anis Chouchane and singer Ammani Harabi, who share their personal experiences of discrimination. Their testimonies reveal the profound impact of racism from a young age, with some recounting instances of being subjected to racist nicknames and facing the arduous task of changing their surnames to escape prejudice.

“

Racial discrimination is not only a legacy of the past but a reality that is still active in the collective unconscious.

Director Hichem Ben Ammar emphasizes that racial discrimination is not merely a relic of the past but a persistent reality embedded in the collective unconscious. The documentary, shot in black and white, adopts a historical, anthropological, and social approach to unravel the origins of slavery and its lasting legacy in Tunisia. "La liberté en acte" serves as a crucial platform for dialogue, challenging preconceived notions and advocating for a more inclusive and equitable society. It is a vital contribution to understanding the nuances of race and identity within the Arab world, offering a perspective often absent in mainstream international discourse.

“

Atig (freed), Chouchan, Msellam, Guizani, Oussif or Kahlouch are all racist terms used against these Black Tunisians.