Cultural Revolution and Publishing Activism: An Interview with Kenza Sefrioui on Souffles, Memory, and Contemporary Morocco

This interview examines Kenza Sefrioui’s multidimensional role as scholar, journalist, publisher, and cultural activist, focusing on how her work interrogates Moroccan cultural identity and transformation through the lens of Souffles (1966-1973). Sefrioui highlights key contributions of Souffles to cultural decolonization and interdisciplinary dialogue, emphasizing the journal’s theory of political and cultural revolution. She addresses translation as a means for transnational solidarity, explores the diverse heritage of Moroccan identity, and discusses the impact of state repression during the Years of Lead. The conversation connects these historical insights to pressing contemporary challenges in publishing—linguistic barriers, readership issues, and calls for collective engagement. Drawing from her experience co-founding Éditions En toutes lettres, Sefrioui positions publishing as a militant, democratic practice for expanding access to scholarship and fostering debate.