Algeria Day

Celebrating the 62st Independence Day

July 5th, 2024
6PM-9PM

Market Square, 300 King St
Alexandria

Join us for a memorable celebration of Algerian culture and independence!

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This celebration holds immense significance for both nations, symbolizing the enduring friendship that spans centuries. Dating back to the 18th century, our two countries have shared a history of camaraderie and cooperation, marked by mutual respect and shared values.

Through “Algeria Day,” we aim to strengthen the bonds between our communities, bridging the geographical divide and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for our shared history and cultural heritage.

Come and be a part of this joyous celebration as we honor the 61st anniversary of Algeria’s independence. Let us embrace the spirit of unity and friendship, celebrating the past while envisioning a future of continued collaboration and harmony.

About "Algeria Day"

Welcome to “Algeria Day” in Alexandria, where we proudly celebrate the 61st anniversary of Algeria’s independence! Every year on the 5th of July, the Algerian American Community comes together to honor this momentous occasion, recognizing the deep-rooted bond between Algeria and the United States.

Algerian-American Relations

Algeria and the United States of America share a long history of friendly relations dating back to September 5, 1795, at which time the two countries signed their Treaty of Amity and Peace. Algeria was among the very first countries to recognize American independence and has since continuously worked to strengthen relations of peace and friendship with the United States.

The city of Elkader, Iowa, established as a tribute to Emir Abdelkader, an Arab and Muslim man, is the perfect illustration of the excellent relations that have existed for centuries between Algeria and the United States. The values and history shared by the two nations occupy a special place in their peoples’ collective memories. They also continuously feed a strong commitment among their leaders to raise Algerian American relations to a level truly reflecting their great potentialities and the strong aspirations of the peoples of both countries.

In 1860, Emir Abdelkader, the emblematic figure of Algerian resistance to French colonization who was later exiled to Syria, became the symbol of Muslim tolerance when he sheltered and saved thousands of persecuted Christians and Jews fleeing for their lives, including American diplomats and their families holed up in the American General Consulate in Damascus. Emir Abdelkader’s brave demonstration of humanity and selflessness earned him appreciation and honors from U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and recognition as a pioneer standing for humanitarian intervention.

Similarly, the city of Santa Monica, California, is named after Monica of Hippo, an early Christian Saint and mother of St. Augustine, the great Algerian theologian and philosopher who greatly influenced Western Christianity. Elkader and Santa Monica not only carry strong symbolism as connectors between Algeria and the United States, they also stand for the shared values and common histories that give their relationship an exceptional character.

President Ronald Reagan at Podium with Algerian President Chadli Bendjedid.

Ahmed Ben Bella, Prime Minister of Algeria and President John F. Kennedy.

A copy of the the 1795 Treaty of Peace and Amity between Algeria and the US.

The peoples of Algeria and America have both always cherished and fought for the values of liberty, independence and justice. They have also supported each other, standing shoulder to shoulder in difficult and trying times in their respective histories. For instance, the steadfast and courageous defense by then-Senator John F. Kennedy in support of the determined struggle for independence by the Algerian people earned him the deep and everlasting gratitude of that people.

By the same token, Jan. 20, 1981, will no doubt remain as a highlight and remarkable episode in the relations between the two countries. On that date, Algerian diplomats had succeeded in gaining freedom for 52 Americans held hostage in Iran. Algeria’s mediation elicited the admiration of the American Administration and the U.S. Congress as they thanked the Algerian negotiators for their successful resolution of the hostage crisis.