Ethiopian Americans Urge U.S. Lawmakers to Address Human Rights Crisis in Ethiopia’s Arsi Zone

Ethiopian Americans are calling on U.S. lawmakers and the administration to address the ongoing human rights crisis in Ethiopia’s Arsi Zone of the Oromia Region. The appeal highlights severe violence against civilians, including killings, abductions, forced displacement, and attacks on religious institutions. These reports have drawn concern from Ethiopian American communities, who emphasize the need for international attention and action.

In a message sent to U.S. lawmakers, Ethiopian Americans urged for an independent and impartial investigation into the reported atrocities. They called for stronger protections for civilians and religious communities, humanitarian aid for displaced families, and accountability for those responsible for human rights violations. The appeal underscores the gravity of the situation, which has persisted over several years and affected many families directly.

The Ethiopian Human Rights Council (EHRCO) has documented extensive harm, including the deaths of at least 432 civilians and four local militia members in armed attacks across East Arsi. The report covers multiple districts, such as Merti, Shirka, Jeju, Robe, Guna, Honqolo Wabe, Munisa, Aseko, and Arsi Sire. Thousands of people have been displaced due to violence and insecurity, with an estimated 14,415 individuals forced from their homes. Abductions for ransom and missing persons are also reported.

Ethiopian American communities in the U.S. are deeply affected by these developments. Many have relatives, friends, and community members who have suffered or are still at risk. They argue that the U.S., as a key diplomatic partner of Ethiopia and a proponent of human rights and religious freedom, should not remain silent in the face of credible reports of serious abuses.

The appeal also addresses attacks on members of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and the destruction of religious institutions. One notable incident involves the looting and burning of the historic Teleta Saint Gabriel Church in Aseko District, which is approximately 101 years old. For many communities, such attacks represent not just a loss of property, but a profound assault on cultural heritage and spiritual life.

Churches in Ethiopia serve as vital centers of worship, community life, education, and historical identity. The destruction of these institutions is seen as an attack on the very fabric of local society. Ethiopian Americans are urging the U.S. to take a firm stance in protecting these communities and ensuring that human rights are upheld.

The situation in Arsi is described as part of a broader pattern of violence that has persisted for years. Ethiopian Americans stress that this is not an isolated issue but a systemic problem requiring urgent international intervention. They believe the U.S. has a moral and diplomatic responsibility to act, given its long-standing support for human rights and democratic governance.

Source: Read the original report