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A project of Common Dreams

For Immediate Release
Contact:

Hamid Bendaas, 202-450-0491

Rep. Ellison Briefing on Human Rights and Democracy in Ethiopia

In November 2015, mostly peaceful student protests broke out in Ethiopia's Oromia region. The Ethiopian government's brutal crackdown brought to the surface broader discontent over the suppression of critical rights and freedoms that extends beyond any single issue or ethnic group. These protests have expanded well beyond the Oromia region and developed into Ethiopia's longest and most widespread protest movement since the ruling party took power in 1991.

WASHINGTON

In November 2015, mostly peaceful student protests broke out in Ethiopia's Oromia region. The Ethiopian government's brutal crackdown brought to the surface broader discontent over the suppression of critical rights and freedoms that extends beyond any single issue or ethnic group. These protests have expanded well beyond the Oromia region and developed into Ethiopia's longest and most widespread protest movement since the ruling party took power in 1991.

This briefing, hosted by Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN), will examine the current state of human rights and democracy in Ethiopia. Speakers will provide an overview of the human rights situation and challenges, as well as the challenges faced by many of Ethiopia's ethnic groups. They will also recommend actions for members of Congress to advance human rights and promote stabilization.

WHAT: Briefing on the State of Human Rights and Democracy in Ethiopia

WHEN:Tuesday, January 30, 2018, 3:00PM - 4:30PM

WHERE: 121 Cannon House Office Building

WHO:

  • Felix Horne, Senior Researcher, Horn of Africa, Human Rights Watch;
  • Anuradha Mittal, Executive Director, The Oakland Institute;
  • Abdi Mohamoud, President, The Ogaden Voice for Peace;
  • Tewodrose Tirfe, Co-Founder, Amhara Association of America;
  • Teshite Wako, President, Oromo Community of Minnesota, and
  • Moderated by Lauren Ploch Blanchard, African Affairs Specialist, Congressional Research Service

Rep. Keith Ellison has represented the Fifth Congressional District of Minnesota in the U.S. House of Representatives since taking office on January 4, 2007. The Fifth Congressional District is the most vibrant and diverse district in Minnesota with a rich history and traditions. The Fifth District includes the City of Minneapolis and the surrounding suburbs.