In a country where such children and thousands of women are tortured and killed in horrific conditions, we are in a country where there is no responsibility and grief for the injuries of its citizens. It is with great sadness that we celebrate International Women’s Day. In such a situation, it is a shame to celebrate only one day for women. Yet it is important for all women to say happy Women’s Day. Despite the difficulties we are in, celebrating this day helps us to celebrate the victories we have achieved and to work harder to solve the problems I have.
Your message is deeply moving and highlights the harsh realities faced by women and children in a context of violence, neglect, and systemic injustice in Oromia/Ethiopia. It underscores the bittersweet nature of celebrating International Women’s Day in such circumstances, where the day serves as both a reminder of the struggles women endure and a call to action for change. Here’s a refined and expanded version of your message, emphasizing resilience, solidarity, and the need for continued advocacy:
A Reflection on International Women’s Day in the Face of Adversity
In a country where countless women and children are subjected to unimaginable violence, torture, and loss, celebrating International Women’s Day is fraught with sadness and anger. A nation that fails to take responsibility for the suffering of its citizens, that turns a blind eye to the pain and grief of its people, is a nation in crisis.
It is heartbreaking to mark this day when so many women and girls continue to endure horrific conditions, their voices silenced, their lives cut short, and their potential stifled. In such a reality, dedicating just one day to celebrate women feels inadequate, even shameful, when the struggle for justice, equality, and safety is a daily battle.
Yet, even in the face of these challenges, we must pause to say Happy Women’s Day. Not because the struggles have ended, but because we must honor the resilience, courage, and strength of women who continue to fight for a better future. Celebrating this day is an act of defiance—a reminder of the victories we have achieved, no matter how small, and a commitment to work even harder to address the injustices that persist.
Why We Celebrate Amidst the Pain
To Honor Resilience: We celebrate to recognize the strength of women who endure unimaginable hardships and still rise to fight for their rights and the rights of others.
To Amplify Voices: This day is an opportunity to amplify the voices of women who are often silenced, ensuring their stories are heard and their struggles acknowledged.
To Inspire Action: Celebrating Women’s Day reminds us of the work that remains to be done. It is a call to action for all of us to stand in solidarity with women and demand justice, equality, and accountability.
To Celebrate Victories: Despite the challenges, women have achieved remarkable victories in various fields. This day allows us to celebrate those achievements and draw inspiration from them.
A Call to Action
On this International Women’s Day, let us not only celebrate but also recommit ourselves to the fight for a world where:
Women and children are safe from violence and oppression.
Governments and institutions are held accountable for their failures to protect their citizens.
Gender equality is not just a dream but a reality.
Every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive, free from fear and discrimination.
Let us use this day to reflect on the progress we have made, no matter how small, and to renew our determination to address the challenges that remain. Together, we can create a future where every day is a celebration of women’s rights, dignity, and freedom.
Happy International Women’s Day to all the courageous women who continue to fight, survive, and inspire. Your strength gives us hope, and your resilience fuels our determination to create a better world.
This message balances the somber reality of the struggles faced by women with a hopeful call to action, emphasizing the importance of solidarity, advocacy, and resilience. It is a reminder that even in the darkest times, celebrating Women’s Day is an act of resistance and a step toward change. 🌟
March 8 is International Women’s Day in many countries. The day is celebrated to recognize women for their social, political, cultural and economic achievements. It is a day when gender equality and women’s safety are given more attention. The Women and Children’s Interests Branch of the OLF congratulates everyone on this day and explores how to commemorate March 8.
This is a powerful and important message from the Women and Children’s Interests Branch of the OLF (Oromo Liberation Front) in honor of International Women’s Day (March 8). The day is a global celebration of women’s achievements and a call to action for gender equality and women’s safety. Here’s a refined and expanded version of your message, along with ideas for commemorating the day:
International Women’s Day Message from the Women and Children’s Interests Branch of the OLF
On March 8, International Women’s Day, we celebrate the social, political, cultural, and economic achievements of women around the world. This day is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality, women’s safety, and the empowerment of women and girls in all spheres of life.
The Women and Children’s Interests Branch of the OLF extends its heartfelt congratulations to all women, especially Oromo women, who have been at the forefront of the liberation struggle, advocating for justice, equality, and freedom. Your resilience, courage, and leadership inspire us all to continue fighting for a better future.
As we commemorate this day, let us reflect on the progress made and the challenges that remain. Let us renew our commitment to creating a world where every woman and girl can live with dignity, safety, and equal opportunity.
How to Commemorate March 8: Ideas for Action
Amplify Women’s Voices: Share stories of Oromo women and women worldwide who have made significant contributions to their communities and liberation struggles. Use platforms like social media, community gatherings, or webinars to highlight their achievements.
Advocate for Gender Equality: Organize discussions, workshops, or campaigns focused on gender equality, women’s rights, and the elimination of gender-based violence.
Support Women-Led Initiatives: Promote and support businesses, organizations, and projects led by women, particularly those in marginalized communities.
Educate and Empower: Host educational events that empower women and girls with skills, knowledge, and resources to thrive in their personal and professional lives.
Celebrate Women’s Culture: Showcase the cultural contributions of women through music, art, poetry, and storytelling. Celebrate the rich traditions of Oromo women, such as the Siinqee institution, which symbolizes unity and resistance.
Demand Justice and Safety: Advocate for policies and practices that ensure the safety and protection of women and girls, both in times of peace and conflict.
Global Solidarity: Build alliances with women’s movements worldwide to strengthen the global fight for gender equality and women’s liberation.
A Call to Action
This International Women’s Day, let us honor the sacrifices and achievements of women by taking concrete steps toward a more just and equitable world. Together, we can break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a future where every woman and girl can thrive.
Happy International Women’s Day! #IWD2025 #GenderEquality #OromoWomen #WomenInStruggle #DDD_OLF
This message and the accompanying ideas for action can help inspire meaningful engagement and celebration of International Women’s Day, while also addressing the ongoing challenges faced by women, particularly in the context of the Oromo liberation struggle. Let’s make March 8 a day of reflection, celebration, and action! 🌟
The role of Oromo women in the struggle for Oromo freedom is significant and multifaceted, and it is important to highlight their contributions, especially in the context of International Women’s Day (March 8). This day celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women globally, while also advocating for gender equality and women’s rights. Oromo women have been at the forefront of the Oromo struggle for freedom, justice, and equality, both within their community and in the broader Ethiopian and global context.
Key Contributions of Oromo Women in the Struggle for Oromo Freedom:
1. Political Activism and Leadership:
– Oromo women have played critical roles in political movements, including the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) and other organizations advocating for Oromo rights. They have served as leaders, organizers, and strategists, challenging both the Ethiopian state’s oppression and patriarchal norms within their own society.
– Women like Kuwe Kumsa and others have been instrumental in mobilizing communities and advocating for Oromo self-determination.
2. Cultural Preservation and Advocacy:
– Oromo women have been custodians of Oromo culture, language (Afaan Oromo), and traditions, ensuring that these elements survive despite decades of marginalization and assimilation policies by the Ethiopian state.
– Through cultural practices, songs, and storytelling, they have kept the spirit of resistance alive and passed it down to younger generations.
3. Grassroots Mobilization:
– Oromo women have been active in grassroots movements, organizing protests, rallies, and community initiatives to resist oppression and demand justice. Their involvement in the 2014–2018 Oromo protests, for example, was pivotal in bringing international attention to the Oromo struggle.
– They have also been key in providing support to families of political prisoners and victims of state violence.
4. Advocacy for Gender Equality:
– Within the Oromo struggle, women have fought not only for national liberation but also for gender equality. They have challenged patriarchal structures within their own society, advocating for women’s rights to education, political participation, and economic independence.
– Organizations like the Oromo Women’s Charitable Organization (OWCO) and others have worked to empower Oromo women and address issues such as gender-based violence and discrimination.
5. International Advocacy:
– Oromo women in the diaspora have been vocal in raising awareness about the Oromo struggle on international platforms. They have used social media, academic forums, and international organizations to highlight human rights abuses and advocate for justice.
– Their efforts have helped build global solidarity and draw attention to the plight of the Oromo people.
6. Resilience and Sacrifice:
– Oromo women have endured immense suffering, including imprisonment, torture, and loss of loved ones, yet they have remained resilient. Their courage and determination have inspired countless others to join the struggle for freedom and justice.
International Women’s Day and the Oromo Struggle:
On International Women’s Day, it is crucial to recognize the intersection of gender and national liberation struggles. Oromo women embody the spirit of this day by fighting for both their rights as women and the freedom of their people. Their contributions highlight the importance of including women’s voices and leadership in liberation movements and the broader fight for social justice.
Conclusion:
The role of Oromo women in the struggle for Oromo freedom is a testament to their strength, resilience, and commitment to justice. On International Women’s Day, their stories remind us of the interconnectedness of gender equality and national liberation. By honoring their contributions, we not only celebrate their achievements but also reaffirm the importance of women’s leadership in the global fight for freedom and equality.
Advocacy for Oromia was established in 2010 with the purpose of enabling and empowering Oromo people by providing accurate and timely information that will help to make better choices to create the kind of future in which they wish to live.
It also provides information focus on the major issues facing us in the 21st century and it is going to try and bring a balanced approach with factual information that is positive and solution based.
The website has been in operation for the last nine years with the mission of promoting and advancing causes of Oromo people through advocacy, community education, information service, capacity building, awareness raising and promotion.
The website is also the official site of Advocacy for Oromia Association in Victoria Australia Inc., a non-profit organisation, registered under the Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 in Victoria as April 2014.
Our team already had considerable community development experience and expertise. Our various projects helped to develop our confidence and the capacity of our agency. Our team used every gained knowledge, skills and experiences as an opportunity to design and develop new approaches, to documenting progress, supporting positive employment outcomes, liaising with community stakeholders, and conduct evaluation.
Advocacy for Oromia is devoted to establishing Advocacy for Oromia organisation to close the gaps where we can stand for people who are disadvantaged and speaking out on their behalf in a way that represents the best interests of them. We are committed to supporting positive settlement and employment outcomes for Victoria’s Oromo community.
Advocacy for Oromia Office
Addresses:
39 Clow St,
Dandenong VIC 3175
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247-251 Flinders Lane
Melbourne VIC 3000
Activities Address
Springvale Neighbourhood House Inc
Address: 46-50 Queens Ave, Springvale VIC 3171
Postal Address:
P. O. Box 150
Noble Park, Vic 3174
With your support, we can continue to help community build a better future.
Advocacy for Oromia Mental Health Program
The aim of the program is to improving the mental health and well-being of Oromo community in Victoria. It aims to assist those experiencing, mental ill-health, their families and carers of all ages within this community to address the social determinants of mental health for Oromo community. It helps:
Identify and build protective factors,
Reduce stigma and discrimination
Build capacity for self-determination
Better understand mental wellbeing, mental ill-health and the impacts of trauma
The goal of the project is to increase mental health literacy of Oromo community that aims:
To assist people with mental health issues
To increase the capacity of mental health worker
To better understand mental wellbeing
To provide mental health education and information
To address the social and cultural causes of mental health issues
Advocacy for Oromia will organise information session, women performance, radio programs, culturally adopted conversations on Oromo Coffee Drinking ceremony, providing training for mental health guides and forum and producing educational materials on the selected groups and geographical area.
Human Rights Education Program
The Human Rights Education Program is a community based human rights program designed to develop an understanding of everyone’s common responsibility to make human rights a reality in each community.
Human rights can only be achieved through an informed and continued demand by people for their protection. Human rights education promotes values, beliefs and attitudes that encourage all individuals to uphold their own rights and those of others.
The aim of the program is to build an understanding and appreciation for human rights through learning about rights and learning through rights. We aimed at building a universal culture of human rights. Thus, we aimed:
To build an understanding and appreciation for human rights through learning about rights and learning through rights.
To build capacities and sharing good practice in the area of human rights education and training
To develop human rights education and training materials and resources
The goal of the project is to increase human rights literacy of Oromo community that aims:
To better understand human rights
To increase the capacity of human rights worker
To analyse situations in human rights terms
To provide human rights education and information
To develop solidarity
To strategize and implement appropriate responses to injustice.
The ultimate goal of education for human rights is empowerment, giving people the knowledge and skills to take control of their own lives and the decisions that affect them.
Human rights education constitutes an essential contribution to the long-term prevention of human rights abuses and represents an important investment in the endeavour to achieve a just society in which all human rights of all persons are valued and respected.
Advocacy for Oromia will organise information session, performance, radio programs, culturally adopted conversations on Oromo Coffee Drinking ceremony, providing training for Human Rights guides and forum and producing educational materials on the selected groups and geographical area.
Community Safety Program
The program aims to strengthen existing collaborations and identify opportunities for the development of partnerships aimed at community safety and crime prevention activities. This approach seeks to improve the individual and collective quality of life by addressing concerns regarding the wider physical and social environment. Importantly, community safety means addressing fear of crime and perceptions of safety as without this any actions to address the occurrence of crime and anti-social behaviour are of less value.
Advocacy for Oromia 