“Galgala haadhaa Abbaa kiyya, galgala ajaa’iba…”
“Thank you, my mother and father, thank you for this amazing evening…”

On a night that will be remembered for years to come, the Oromo community came together to honour the pillars of their families—the parents who sacrificed everything to give their children a future. The event, a celebration of resilience, love, and heritage, was a testament to the enduring spirit of a people who have carried their culture across oceans and generations.

A Celebration of Sacrifice and Love

In every culture, parents are the unsung heroes—the ones who work tirelessly, often in obscurity, to build a foundation for their children. For the Oromo community, this truth is magnified by the weight of displacement, the pain of exile, and the determination to preserve identity in a foreign land.

The recent celebration in honour of Oromo parents was more than a social gathering. It was a recognition of the countless nights of worry, the endless hours of labour, and the unshakeable faith that parents have placed in their children. It was a moment to pause, to reflect, and to say: “Galatoomaa”—Thank you.

As Aisha Oromia Ali, expressed in a heartfelt reflection:

“A night celebrating my parents, thank you to the organising committee, family, friends and our community for being a part of this memorable event and special thanks to ShaboMedia Oromiya for capturing the memories. Very proud of you all.”

The Organising Committee: Architects of Memory

Behind every great event is a team of dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to bring a vision to life. The organising committee of this celebration poured their hearts into creating an evening that would honour the past while inspiring the future. From coordinating logistics to curating a program that reflected the richness of Oromo culture, their efforts did not go unnoticed.

As one attendee, Aisha’s gratitude extended to them:

“Warri koree, maatiifii hiriyoota akkasumas hawaasa bal’aa kan qooda baataniin galata gurguddaa hammana hin ja’amne qabadan, wayyoomaa.”
“The committee, family, and friends, and the wider community who participated—you have our deepest gratitude, which will never be forgotten.”

Their work ensured that the evening was not just an event, but a meaningful experience—a bridge between generations, a celebration of identity, and a reaffirmation of community bonds.

ShaboMedia Oromiya: Preserving the Moments

In the age of digital memory, the role of media in preserving cultural moments cannot be overstated. ShaboMedia Oromiya, the official media partner for the event, captured the essence of the evening with professionalism and heart. Their cameras documented the smiles, the tears, the embraces, and the speeches—creating a visual legacy that will be cherished for generations.

Aisha acknowledged their contribution with warmth:

“Shabboo media iilleen galata addaa qaban.”
“ShaboMedia also deserves special thanks.”

Through their lens, the celebration was immortalised—ensuring that the memories of this night will be shared with those who could not attend and with future generations who will look back and see the love and pride of their ancestors.

The Power of Community

At its heart, the evening was a celebration of community—of the bonds that tie the Oromo people together, no matter where they are in the world. In a diaspora scattered across continents, events like these serve as anchors, reminding everyone of who they are and where they come from.

The attendance of family, friends, and community members reflected the collective commitment to preserving Oromo culture and honouring the sacrifices of the past. The support of the wider community was deeply appreciated:

“…kan qooda baataniin galata gurguddaa hammana hin ja’amne qabadan…”
“…you who participated, you have our deepest gratitude, which will never be forgotten.”

A Message to Parents: Your Legacy Lives On

For the parents who were honoured that night, the message was clear: We see you. We appreciate you. We will carry your legacy forward.

The title of the celebration, “Galgala haadhaa Abbaa kiyya” (Thank you, my mother and father), is more than a phrase—it is a declaration of love, respect, and commitment. It acknowledges the sleepless nights, the sacrifices made, and the dreams that parents hold for their children.

For Oromo parents, many of whom have endured displacement, exile, and the challenges of rebuilding their lives in a new land, this recognition is deeply meaningful. It is a reminder that their efforts have not been in vain—that their children see them, honour them, and will continue the traditions they have passed down.

Looking Forward: Continuing the Legacy

While the evening was a celebration, it was also a call to action. It reminded the younger generation of their responsibility to carry forward the culture, language, and values of their parents. It encouraged them to build bridges between generations, to preserve the stories of their ancestors, and to ensure that the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten.

As the night came to a close, the sense of gratitude and unity lingered in the air. The words of Aisha resonated deeply:

“Very proud of you all.”

Conclusion: A Night to Remember

The celebration of Oromo parents was more than an event—it was a testament to the resilience of a people, the love of a community, and the enduring power of gratitude. It was a night of laughter, tears, and reflection—a night that honoured the past while inspiring the future.

To the organising committee, to ShaboMedia Oromiya, to the parents, and to the community: thank you. Your efforts created a memory that will last a lifetime, a memory that will be passed down through generations.

“Galatoomaa haadhaa Abbaa kiyya…”
“Thank you, my mother and father…”

May the legacy of Oromo parents continue to inspire and guide the community for generations to come.