JEF***SUCKS !
This article has been written by a Moroccan Clubber, sharing his insight and experience
On the night of June 28th, after an exhilarating Nicki Minaj concert at Mawazine, we decided to cap off the night at Le Jefferson, where Raghoul collective had collabed with the night-club to organize an event in their premises. The energy from the concert had us buzzing, and we were eager to continue the festivities. As the members of the collective organizing the event as well as the DJs performing are our close friends, our names were naturally on the guest list and we were confident this would be a night to remember.
As we approached the entrance, the bouncers eyed us with suspicion. Despite our assurance that we were on the guest list, they refused to let us in, dismissing our claims with a wave of their hands and telling us to "kheless wla sir t9wd" (pay or get the f*** out). The situation escalated quickly, as the bouncers became increasingly aggressive, using physical intimidation to force us away from the door.
We contacted our friends and explained the situation. The climax of this absurdity came when our friend, a talented DJ and one of the event's organizers and performers that night, approached the bouncers. With confidence, she explained her role, expecting a quick resolution. Instead, she was met with derision and disbelief. One of the bouncers sneered at her, calling her a liar who was making up her position only to let us in. It was a shocking display of disrespect and misogyny.
As we stood there, stunned and humiliated, it became painfully clear that this wasn’t an isolated incident. Le Jefferson's reputation preceded it. While waiting for a resolution, we watched as many people were refused entry for no reason at all, except for white "expats" who received premium treatment, as well as the usual older clientele who is used to bribe its way in. Meanwhile, the bouncers engaged in negotiations with the young locals about their entry, showcasing a blatant and discriminatory double standard. The club, which should have been a place of fun and inclusion, was instead a bastion of prejudice and hostility.
This experience at this club highlighted a darker side of Rabat's nightlife. The violent behavior of the bouncers, coupled with their blatant discrimination, demands immediate attention and action. For the sake of its patrons and the city's reputation, Le Jefferson must be held accountable and compelled to change its ways. Rabat deserves better – a nightlife that welcomes everyone and celebrates diversity, free from fear and exclusion.
ANONYMOUS