On the fateful evening of Friday, September 8th, Morocco experienced a devastating 6.8 magnitude earthquake that left the nation reeling. The aftermath saw the loss of over 2,000 lives, with 1,404 people suffering from serious injuries. According to the World Health Organization, this natural disaster has affected over 300,000 people, a number that continues to rise.
A Collective of Compassion
“Artists for Morocco” is a collective comprised of 26 established and emerging Moroccan photographers and artists who have joined hands to make a difference in the wake of the earthquake. This inspiring initiative is spearheaded by Samira Larouci, editor-at-large for Moroccan GQ Middle East, along with photographer Anass Ouaziz and designer Ismail Elaaddioui. The collective includes an array of prominent artists, such as Hassan Hajjaj, Meriem Bennani, Yto Barrada, Mous Lamrabat, and many others.
Aiding the Most Vulnerable
The earthquake’s epicenter was deep within the Atlas Mountains, causing remote Amazigh villages to crumble, leaving countless individuals trapped, missing, or unaccounted for. In response to this dire situation, Artists for Morocco has launched a print sale with a noble purpose: to raise essential funds for on-the-ground assistance. In the first 24 hours of the charitable initiative, $60,000 has already been raised.
The Beneficiaries:
The proceeds from this print sale will be dedicated to two vital NGOs:
- Amal Women’s Training Center: Located in Marrakesh, this women’s charity is dedicated to delivering food to those in need. In the aftermath of the earthquake, their support is crucial in ensuring that affected individuals have access to sustenance and aid.
- Rif Tribes Foundation: This NGO has been tirelessly working to provide aid and support to the remote villages that bore the brunt of the earthquake’s devastation. Their efforts are indispensable in helping these communities rebuild their lives.
You can find out more about the cause, and the works on offer via the website: artistsformorocco.com
