Ethiopian meeting in Upstate New York City

By Organizers

April 19, 2006

Obang Metho, Dr. Taye Wolde-Semayat and Tamagne Beyene called for the unconditional release of the political prisoners in Ethiopia.

The highlights of this event were Dr. Taye Woldesemayat, Ato Obang O Metho, and Artist Tamagn Beyene. The organizers of this event are deeply indebted to these panelists who took their precious time to be with us at short notice and without regard to our small community size compared to the crowds they typically draw in major cities. The panelists have personally paid dearly for their vision of a unified democratic Ethiopia whereby all her citizens can enjoy fundamental human rights and have equal economic opportunities. They share a unique ability to communicate their vision in a sincere and frank manner.

For our region this was one of a kind event. There were about 250 participants, Ethiopians from different nationality groups and religions were present. After our presenters gave their speech on conditions in Ethiopia and their visions for our people and the country, the floor was opened for questions and answers. At the end a 16 minutes video, captured during the two peaceful demonstrations that took place in Addis Ababa and the governments reaction to it filled with atrocities towards its citizen was shown. The meeting that was slated to last from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM was extended to 8:00 PM because of the participant’s desire for the dialog to continue. The mood of the audience was filled with energy and a call to purpose. Signatures were collected on the petition in support of the HR4423, (“Ethiopian Freedom, Human Rights and Democracy Act”) to be sent to our local House of Representatives. Money was raised to support the families of those who are in jail because of their participation in the democratic process in Ethiopia.

At this gathering Dr. Taye continued his call for the resignation of Prime Minister Meles. All three panelists called for the unconditional freedom of those who are jailed because of their peaceful political activities and called for an end to the systematic harassments of opposition parties and independent journalists. They all advocated for all Ethiopians to unite as Ethiopians for the betterment of our people’s future. They all warned the audience not to alienate or ostracize any Ethiopian because of their ethnic background nor religious difference.

They stated the problem in our country is not between the Tigrayans and others. Rather, on one hand the policy of the Wayane’s who are bent on destroying the country by pursuing divisions among families of the same mother Ethiopia, for their own petty survival and on the other hand, the vision of a unified democratic Ethiopia with all rights of her people respected irrespective of their background. They also reminded us that the West, including the United States of America is only looking for their own national interest. Only Ethiopians can solve Ethiopia’s problem. May the lord look upon our people and county in favor.