(A4O, Jul 18, 2013) On July 4th, Oromos gathered in Minnesota to celebrate the 50th Golden Jubilee of artist Ali Muhammed Birra. As a lifelong friend and compatriot, Dr. Gemechu Megerssa  talks about Dr. Ali Birraa, Afran Qallo, the concept of  Oromo, Oromummaa, the Oromo notion of race, “we” & “them” dichotomy & much more.

Dr. Gemechu also  shares  his work,  life,  knowledge of  Anthropology  of  over the last 40 years experiences.

In this first part, Dr. Gemechu discusses his life and work, the legacy of the Afran Qallo cultural movement, Ali Birra’s work, and his understanding of Oromumma.

The following individuals contributed to the rich discussion with Dr. Gemechu: Dr. Ezekiel Gebissa, Ayantu Tibeso, Jawar Mohammed, Hashim Adam, Girma Taddese, Birhanemeskel Segni.