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Empowering Oromos: Actions by the Australian Community
The Oromo community in Australia has a unique opportunity and responsibility to support their counterparts in Oromia, Ethiopia. Given their collective experience, cultural background, and the socio-political dynamics of Oromia, the Australian Oromo community can engage in several initiatives. Here are ten vital actions that they can undertake to improve the welfare and status of the Oromo people in Oromia:
### 1. **Advocacy and Awareness Raising**
The Oromo community in Australia can engage in advocacy efforts to raise awareness about the issues faced by Oromos in Ethiopia. This includes educating the Australian public and government officials about human rights abuses, political suppression, and socio-economic challenges faced by Oromos in Oromia. Hosting workshops, seminars, and cultural events can effectively disseminate this information, encouraging a broader understanding and potential support for Oromo causes.
### 2. **Establishing Partnerships with NGOs**
Collaborating with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that focus on human rights and development in Ethiopia can amplify the impact of initiatives. The Oromo community can support NGOs working directly in Oromia by providing funding, volunteer services, and logistical support. This partnership can ensure that projects are culturally sensitive and aligned with the needs of the local population.
### 3. **Cultural Exchange Programs**
Initiating cultural exchange programs between the Oromo community in Australia and Oromia can foster mutual understanding and solidarity. Through cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and oral history projects, both communities can share their traditions, challenges, and triumphs. Such programs not only strengthen ties between the diaspora and the homeland but can also serve as a platform for preserving Oromo heritage.
### 4. **Educational Support and Scholarships**
Education is a powerful tool for social change. The Australian Oromo community can establish scholarship programs to support Oromo students in Oromia who face financial barriers to education. They can also partner with educational institutions in Australia to create opportunities for Oromo students from Oromia to study abroad, learn new skills, and gain exposure that they can bring back to their communities.
### 5. **Health Initiatives**
Access to healthcare remains a significant challenge in many parts of Oromia. The Oromo community in Australia can organize fundraising efforts to support health initiatives, including clinics, maternal health services, and mental health programs in Oromia. Collaborating with healthcare professionals in Australia to share knowledge and resources can also enhance healthcare delivery in their homeland.
### 6. **Economic Development Projects**
To support sustainable development in Oromia, the Australian Oromo community can invest in economic development projects. This could include microfinance programs for small businesses, agricultural cooperatives, or vocational training programs. By empowering individuals and providing them with the tools to succeed, the community can help lift families out of poverty and enhance local economies.
### 7. **Promoting Political Engagement**
Encouraging political awareness and engagement among the Oromo community in Australia is crucial. They can organize information sessions on how to participate in political processes, both locally and in relation to Ethiopia. By engaging in public discussions and lobbying efforts, they can advocate for policies that support democracy and human rights in Oromia.
### 8. **Documentation of Human Rights Abuses**
Establishing a documentation project to collect testimonials and evidence of human rights abuses against Oromos in Ethiopia is vital. This can serve as a resource to inform international bodies, human rights organizations, and policymakers. By creating a repository of stories and data, they can amplify the voices of those who have suffered, ensuring that these issues receive the attention they deserve.
### 9. **Support for Refugees and Asylum Seekers**
Many Oromos have sought refuge in Australia due to persecution in Ethiopia. The Australian Oromo community can provide support for fellow Oromos navigating the complexities of the refugee process, offering legal assistance, social integration programs, and mentorship. By creating a welcoming environment, they can help enhance the chances of successful settlement for refugees.
### 10. **Strengthening Community Bonds**
Finally, the Oromo community in Australia must prioritize strengthening their internal community bonds. By fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose, they can mobilize resources and support more effectively. Regular community gatherings, cultural celebrations, and dialogue platforms can help reinforce a shared identity and commitment to improving conditions for Oromos in Oromia.
### Conclusion
The Oromo community in Australia holds a significant position to make a difference in the lives of their counterparts in Oromia. Through advocacy, education, health initiatives, economic support, and cultural exchange, they can contribute to building a stronger, more empowered Oromo community both at home and abroad. By leveraging their skills, resources, and passion, the Australian Oromo community can be instrumental in achieving lasting positive change for the Oromo people in Ethiopia. Their commitment to these efforts not only benefits Oromos in Oromia but also enriches the cultural landscape of Australia and reinforces the importance of global solidarity.
Advocacy for Oromia: Using Oromo Strengths to develop resilience
The past two years have been difficult times for our entire community. In a way, the unexpected breakdown of the culture of physical contact was a serious problem. The introduction of online meetings that represented this culture was another problem for some members of our community. This was also a major challenge for us, Advocacy for Oromia, as an organization. That was when we were paying for free without using our office.
We are not yet completely out of the pandemic; but now that it is being resolved to some extent, it is good to look back. One of the problems we faced during the pandemic is the problem of straightforward information. Due to the abundance of information, it was not easy to find information for the Oromo community. It was a difficult time until the Australian government began to prepare and disseminate information on the subject. We have had a lot of trouble getting accurate information that is professionally translated and disseminated.
This problem had caused our society to become depressed and mentally disturbed. During this time, our volunteers have played a significant role in getting the community to improve their digital literacy and come together online. The emergency grant from the government to make this work a success has also helped us to strengthen the strength of our organization and our volunteers. In particular, the grant given to us through the government on this issue has helped us to provide accurate and up-to-date information to our community. Therefore, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to the government bodies who have been and are still working tirelessly to minimize the pandemic problem and improve the hopes of the entire community.
One of the methods used by Advocacy for Oromia and the Team of the organization during the pandemic is Oromo strengths. Oromo strengths are the Oromo culture and society that they use to cope in times of trouble and evil. We used to celebrate Oromo festivals- Irreechaa- together in person, online with family and encourage each other by sharing how we celebrated and our experiences. This is so that no one feels lonely. It also made it easier for everyone to share up-to-date information and help each other. Another strengths we have been used was health and social professionals who are members of the Oromo community to ensure that the community receives accurate information in its own language.
To address the problems caused by the pandemic, stress, interruptions, and anxiety, it was our duty to continue to strengthen our existing program, Oromo Mental Health. The event used to be a physical gathering and discussion that I was celebrating. During a pandemic, this was not possible. Therefore, in all the existing programs, our organization has done and succeeded in educating the community about mental illness and how to treat and receive treatment. The program is still ongoing.
Since the pandemic, we have celebrated two encouraging events together; We have successfully celebrated the Spring Festival in June and the Spring Festival in early October. Our community is also very happy to see us come together to celebrate the festival physically and face to face through difficult times; children, youth, elderly and mothers have expressed their delight. This is a success we have seen.
But this success was not unique to our organisation; of our community, of our volunteers, of the government and various bodies who have given us support and cooperation. Advocacy for Oromia needs support from all quarters to continue its work to help and develop the community. Since working together is the foundation of organisational value, our doors are open to work with all those who help and develop the community.
Remembering Girma Gamada: A Pillar of Oromo Volunteerism
How do we remember Girma Gamada?
Girma Gamada was born and raised in Oromia. When he was young, however, the political situation did not allow him to serve his countrymen. The passion and passion for promoting Oromo and Oromummaa did not disappear from him. Instead, this charity left the country with Girma and became an example of Oromo Volunteerism.
GIRMA GAMADAA: An Example of Oromo Volunteerism
Volunteerism is doing good for the community. This culture is to do work that benefits the community and the country. Everyone has the ability to be kind; but not everyone works beyond their own existence and livelihood for the benefit of other communities. But people who are born with this gift cannot hide themselves. When they get this opportunity, they start doing things that will promote and promote their nation.
We can take Girma Gammada as an example of the people that Oromo had like this, and lost in a short time.
Girma was exiled from Oromia for political reasons and lived in exile in Nairobi, Kenya. He then settled in Toronto, Canada. From then on, he started working to address the shortage of Oromo through advertising and information. In a short time, he promoted Oromo songs in various ways and made various posters.
He also made it known in the community by preparing advertisements for festivals and events.
He was doing advertising for various Oromo associations. He contributed greatly to the recognition and growth of the Waqeffannaa association by preparing many posters. He has been contributing to the international recognition and growth of the Irreecha festival.
He was involved in all Oromo structures such as OMN, sports associations and community building. He has done a basic job to make the history of the Oromo fighters like Jaal Bureyessso known to the Oromo people and follow their fancy.
Jawar Mohammed recalled Girma’s contribution to OMN as highly dedicated. “It is devastating to hear of the passing of Girma Gemda. We have lost a true friend and a selfless servant of our community. Girma was one of the most committed and consistent people I had the privilege to work with for more than a decade. He was with us from day one, through all the ups and downs. May you rest in peace, brother. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the Toronto community.”
Since arriving from Oromia, almost 20 years ago, Girma has been serving customers with his friendly and informative approach to seafood selections.
It is with heavy hearts that we inform you that Girma has been diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s disease), a rare and life-altering condition. ALS is a neurological disease that affects the motor neurons; motor neurons are the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement. This diagnosis means that Girma can no longer work and provide for his family as he once did.
It also means he can no longer continue his volunteer work as a graphic designer for the Oromo Community Center or pursue his passion for photography. Girma’s photography skills were evident in his coverage of the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Afrofest Toronto and African Fashion Week Toronto.
For people like Hawwinee Alamayehu, Girma was a brotherly advisor. “A patriot, a strong professional, a hero of man, for me to lose you from my own good brother is a strong sorrow beyond words.”
Girmaan was an adult who was strong in many ways. Tulluu Liiban testified to the achievements of Girma Gamada who will be well remembered by the community. “Girma Hordofa Gemeda, who has been a shining star in promoting the Oromo cause through his creative works over the past 2 decades, passed away untimely in North America and beyond hoped he would recover from his illness Unfortunately this humble and clean human being is gone capacity He has been rendering his works for free with passion.
” Moreover, Girma has designed promotional pieces including printable materials such as T-Shirts, caps, banners, artifacts, logos etc. He has also contributed to the design and editing of choreographies and photography. Girma has recorded and documented a number of vital events in Oromo, in videos and pictures. He has designed events, stages and presented auction items for free for community fundraisers. His Lega Xaafoo Studio is based in Toronto, Canada. Girma will be greatly missed because of his invaluable contributions and commitment to the Oromo people throughout his life.”
Girma was being treated for a neurological disease. However, he could not be cured by treatment. He passed away on July 4,2024. Girmaan was the father of one child; condolences to his wife and child.
Girmaan is not with us today. His voluntaristic work will live with us forever. People like Birhanu Olana are remembering him as very committed Oromo professional.”Girman was a strong Oromo son. He was a strong cameraman and graphics expert that he was helping us day and night when we were looking for such professionals and he never asked us for payment for his services.”
OROMO STUDENT PROTESTORS RELEASED FROM JAIL
(Advocacy4oromia, 9 July 2015) At least six Oromo university students were also among three journalists and two bloggers released from Ethiopian prison yesterday, according to various reports.
Adugna Kesso
The freed Oromo university students include Adugna Kesso, Bilisumma Dammana, Lenjisa Alemayo, Abdi Kamal, Magarsa Warqu, and Tofik. All were students who were arrested by security agents from various universities located in the Oromiya regional states. No charges were brought against many of them in the last year and three months.
The arrest of unknown numbers of Oromo University students followed a May 2014 brutal crackdown by the police against university students who protested when a master plan for the expansion of Addis Abeba, the city originally home to the Oromo, was introduced by the federal government.
The 10th Addis Abeba and Oromia Special Zone Integrated Development Master plan, which was in the making for two years before its introduction to the public, finally came off as ‘Addis Abeba and the Surrounding Oromia Special Zone Integrated Development Plan.’
The government claims the master plan, which will annex localities surrounding Addis Abeba but are under the Oromiya regional state, was aimed at “developing an internationally competitive urban region through an efficient and sustainable spatial organization that enhances and takes advantage of complementarities is the major theme for the preparation of the new plan.”
The students protested against the plan and the federal government’s meddling in the affairs of the Oromiya regional state, which many legal experts also say was against Article 49(5) of the Ethiopian Constitution that clearly states “the special interest of the State of Oromia in Addis Abeba.”
Aslan Hassen
Two months ago, student Nimona Chali, one of the detained students, was released from jail without charges. Abebe Urgessa of Haromaya University is still in Qaallitti prison.
Student Aslan Hassen died in prison in what the government claimed was a suicide.
However, many believe he was tortured to death. No independent enquiry was launched to investigate his death.
By the government’s own account, eleven people were killed during university student demonstrations in many parts of the Oromia regional state. However, several other accounts put the number as high as above 50.
Source: http://addisstandard.com/oromo-student-protestors-released-from-jail/
About Abebe Urgessa
Abebe Urgessa
Abebe Urgessa was a second year student, Water Engineering Major, at Haramaya University. After classes were interrupted following the #OromoProtests movement that swept the whole nation in April 2014, Abebe like many other students went to visit his family till the classes resume.
He was arrested upon arrival at a small town called Teji, in South west Shawa, where his families are living. After detention incommunicado for three weeks, he was falsely accused of standing in a market place telling people not to pay taxes to the government. Though the court released him on bail on the 21st of May, 2014, student Abebe was abducted again just a week later on the 29th of May.
While his where about still remains a mystery to this very date, it’s known that the government accused him, on its media outlets, of detonating hand grenade at the Haramaya University facility.
Abebe’s story designates with many other innocent Oromo students unlawfully abducted and falsely accused with bogus charges while being taken to or kept at undisclosed detention centers under severe tortures, more often than not. His story is just one among the many.
Irreechaa – Oromo Thanksgiving Celebration
The Oromo nation is one of the indigenous peoples of East Africa. Throughout long history it has developed its own culture, identity, religious cult and ritual performances. Irrecha means literally worshiping and praying to the Waaqa (Creator).
Advocacy for Oromia 