Ethiopian Community Development Council, Inc.

ECDC invites you to an information session about Private Sponsorship. Join this Friday or next.
Here is the link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcsdO2orjsjHtwHGl8rtX32GpyU-mp9m4aT

As we observe World Population Day today, the global community is reminded of the theme “Leave No One Behind, Count Everyone.” This year’s focus on inclusive data collection highlights the necessity of ensuring every individual is represented in population counts, regardless of their background, nationality, geography, or socioeconomic standing.

At ECDC we understand the critical importance of this theme, particularly for the refugee populations we serve. Refugees and displaced individuals often find themselves marginalized, overlooked, and underrepresented in national and global statistics. This lack of accurate data has significant implications for their access to resources, services, and opportunities.

“Inclusive data collection is not just a technical requirement; it is a moral imperative. For refugees, being counted means being recognized. It means that their needs, experiences, and contributions are acknowledged in the broader societal framework,” said Tsehaye Teferra, President and CEO of ECDC.
Read more: https://ow.ly/Ouy850SzSRG

Today ECDC sent a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken addressing the dire situation facing Ethiopian refugees caught up in the escalating conflict in Sudan. ECDC is calling for immediate action from the U.S. and international partners to protect the lives of these refugees. Read the full letter:https://www.ecdcus.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Urgent-Appeal-to-Rescue-Ethiopian-Refugees-in-Sudan.pdf

Community Comes Together for ECDC's 2024 5K Run for Refugees

By Lullit Paulos (ECDC)

Arlington, Va., (June 29)- ECDC's "Run for Refugees" 5K event aimed to raise crucial funds to support the pressing needs of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Ethiopia was successfully completed this morning at the Blumont Park, here in Arlington.
Organized in solidarity with refugees and displaced persons in Ethiopia, and refugees in Sudan and worldwide, the event drew over 200 runners, including world-renowned Ethiopian athletes Gebregziabher Gebremariam and Werknesh Kidane, along with staff and community members.
“With the theme 'Run for Refugees,' this event underscores our commitment to providing hope, care, and essential support to those who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, and other crises,” said ECDC’s president Tsehaye Tefera, Ph.D., who also participated in the run. “Every step taken in this 5K run symbolizes a stride toward a brighter future for displaced individuals and families.” He thanked the sponsors, volunteers, and all those who participated in the event.

Below: Dr. Tsehaye joining the race in the "Open 5K" category. Nati Gebregziabher after receiving medal from Dr. Tsehaye and his father Gebregziabher for being a top finisher in the Elite 5K category.) (Photo credit: Berhane Abay for ECDC)

Register today!
https://ow.ly/2zto50Sr2N4
Don’t miss out on a chance to run with GEBREGZIABHER GEBREMARIAM, world-famous Ethiopian athlete, New York City Marathon champion, and WORKNESH KIDANE, world-famous Ethiopian athlete, World Champion 10000-meter and cross-country champion!

“As we are celebrating World Refugee Day, I want us to commit to seeing that there is an environment conducive for refugees around the world. Each person that is living in conflict, needs your concern, and your support. Policies are made by people, as community members, as citizens we have an obligation to ensure that there is equity and support. Let us recognize that we have the moral duty to care for other human beings. By doing that we are caring for ourselves,” Dr. Tsehaye Teferra, World Refugee Day panel at the Wilson Center this morning.

We are celebrating talents today. The narrative of how refugees are framed is now changing. The skills and talents of refugees that have been demonstrated show the gains to our country and the loss to the countries they have fled from.
Dr. Tsehaye Teferra, President and CEO of ECDC shares the success of ECDC's work of empowering immigrants and refugees for 41 years.

On This World Refugee Day ECDC President and CEO Dr. Tsehaye Teferra talks about what inspired him to establish ECDC 41 years ago at the Wilson Center.

https://www.wilsoncenter.org/event/world-refugee-day-celebrating-refugee-talents-and-host-country-leadership?utm_medium=email&utm_source=event&utm_campaign=rafdi

On April 12, the Biden Administration announced the extension and redesignation of Temporary Protected Status for Ethiopia, providing relief for thousands of Ethiopian nationals residing in the U.S. Join ECDC and African Communities Together tomorrow, Tuesday May 14th, for an important webinar on TPS for Ethiopia, where we will provide information on who qualifies for TPS, important deadlines to remember, and answer any other questions you may have. Please register to join here https://africans-us.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xsEkf9iJQ5qzkDgWZmJDJQ #/registration

Don’t miss out!
Join us for an exciting evening celebrating diversity, inspiration, and networking! Our Annual Fundraiser Dinner promises an exciting showcase of our community's diversity, with plenty of opportunities for participation. Whether it's buying or selling raffle tickets, becoming a sponsor, spreading the word, or inviting friends, there are many ways to get involved. If you haven't already, secure your seat, become a sponsor, or take part in our fundraising activities. For more details, visit our event webpage.
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to make a difference!

Go to the Booking page: Banquet Registration - ECDC - Ethiopian Community Development Council (https://ow.ly/R6O750Rzvqy)
Go to the Sponsorship page: Sponsorship Opportunities - ECDC - Ethiopian Community Development Council (https://ow.ly/R6O750Rzvqy)

“We applaud the Biden Administration for its decision to provide an 18-month extension and redesignation of TPS for Ethiopia,” said ECDC President and CEO Dr. Tsehaye Teferra. “This welcome news will provide great relief to thousands of Ethiopian nationals who deserve protection as Ethiopia is beset by multiple conflicts and humanitarian crises.” Read Our Press statement https://www.ecdcus.org/news-stories/
https://www.dhs.gov/news/2024/04/12/secretary-mayorkas-announces-extension-and-redesignation-ethiopia-temporary

Today, 117 local, state, and national civil rights, immigrant rights, human rights, and grassroots organizations delivered a letter to the Biden administration urging an 18-month extension and redesignation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopia.

The letter addresses the escalating armed conflict, widespread mass displacement, devastating drought and climate shocks, and severe food insecurity happening across Ethiopia. In 2023, the International Organization for Migration reported that over 4.30 million people were internally displaced across Ethiopia, with the main contributing factor being the ongoing armed conflicts.

Read our press release here: https://africans.us/NGOLetterTPSEthiopia

A Tribute to Refugee, Immigrant, and Newcomer Women
Arlington, Va., March 8, 2024 - On International Women's Day, we pause to honor the extraordinary resilience, strength, and contributions of refugee, immigrant, and newcomer women around the world. In the face of adversity, they embody courage, fortitude, and unwavering determination to rebuild their lives and create a better future for themselves and their families.

Read more: https://www.ecdcus.org/international-womens-day-a-tribute-to-refugee-immigrant-and-newcomer-women/

Join us for an inspiring and uplifting event hosted by ECDC dedicated to celebrating our diversity and shared humanity. As a community-based, multi-cultural refugee resettlement agency, committed to supporting immigrants and refugees for the past 40 years, we recognize the richness that comes from our varied backgrounds, stories, and cultures.
At this event, we will come together to honor the strength, resilience, and contributions of individuals from all walks of life. Through music, dance, food, and storytelling, we will showcase the beauty of our diversity and the bonds that unite us as a global community.

Join us as we celebrate the spirit of inclusivity, acceptance, and understanding. Together, let's embrace our differences and celebrate the unique tapestry of cultures that make our nation a vibrant and harmonious place.

Reserve your seat here: https://www.ecdcus.org/banquet-registration-2/
Check out sponsorship opportunities: https://www.ecdcus.org/get-involved/sponsorship-opportunities/

Register today for webinar! Learn about the benefits of Temporary Protected Status for & how you can join advocacy efforts to ensure that Ethiopian nationals in the US remain protected!

Tues 3/5 @ 7pm EST

https://ow.ly/cSnz50QLFmC

Please join advocates and legal services providers tomorrow, March 5, for an important webinar on Temporary Protected Status for Ethiopia, sponsored by African Communities Together, Communities United for Status and Protection, ECDC, Just Neighbors, the TPS-DED Advocacy Coalition, and United African Organization.

Register for our upcoming webinar on Tuesday, March 5th at 7pm EST!

TPS for Ethiopia has already protected thousands of Ethiopian nationals in the U.S. and has the potential to protect tens of thousands more. As Ethiopia continues to experience violence and famine, we must fight hard to ensure that is extended and re-designated. Help us spread the word about the benefits of TPS and learn how you can join advocacy efforts in your community.

https://africans-us.zoom.us/webinar/register/1117092334110/WN_pnnpn4qlRTiUqPQlSR3Jrw

Happy New Year . We need you to consider donating to the famine victims in Tigray and help us reach our matching goal. Every $2.00 you give will generate $1 .00 in match . Let’s save lives .

Donate Now | Tigray's Famine, Our Response by Ethiopian Community Development Council Inc. (ECDC) Join the MatchTigray's Famine, Our ResponseIt is with a profound sense of urgency and compassion that we reach out to you in response to the dire humanitarian crisis u...

With a profound sense of urgency and compassion, we reach out to you in response to the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in the war-torn region of Tigray, northern Ethiopia.

Tigray is once again facing famine, with 2 million people at risk of starvation and 5.2 million in need of food aid. These unimaginable hardships have unfolded after two years of devastating war, destruction of health facilities, mass displacement, and r**e as a weapon of war.

Click here: https://ow.ly/fou850QlA4g to learn more and donate. Or Text to 44-321 to give securely. Or send a check labeled “Tigray Famine” to ECDC: 901 S Highland Street, Arlington, VA. 22204 .

2023 Spirit of Community honoree, Dr. Tsehaye Teferra, has launched a fundraiser this Giving Tuesday.
Please donate.
https://www.facebook.com/donate/1058982241897410/
Learn more about the award.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbuTJNRg7OY

Arlington, Va. (Nov. 17) – ECDC President and CEO Tsehaye Teferra, Ph.D. and two others have been recognized with 2023 Arlington’s Spirit of Community Award for Decades of Community Service by the Arlington Community Foundation today at a ceremony and luncheon at the Renaissance Arlington, Capital View.

At a ceremony attended by about 500 guests that included elected officials, County Board members, corporate executives, and community leaders, the Honorable William T. Newman, Jr., shared some reflections on Arlington’s past and present and called the audience to consider what actions each can take for the future.

“Individually and collectively, these recipients represent the passion, commitment, and community advocacy that define the Award and the absolute best vision of what Arlington can be,” the Foundation stated earlier.

Read more: https://www.ecdcus.org/ecdc-president-receives-30th-annual-spirit-of-community-award-from-arlington-community-foundation/

Watch Dr. Teferra's video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=pbuTJNRg7OY

Newly Resettled Families to Celebrate their First Thanksgiving at ECDC’s Refugees’ First Thanksgiving Dinner
Arlington, Va., November 16, 2023 – ECDC’s branch office, the African Community Center (ACC) DC Metro will host its 11th annual Refugees’ First Thanksgiving dinner on Sunday, November 19, at the Silver Spring Civic Center in Maryland, which will offer a unique experience to the hundreds of refugees it has resettled this year in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia metro areas.
ECDC’s Refugees First Thanksgiving Dinners are also held annually by ECDC’s branch offices in Las Vegas and Denver, gathering newcomers to share a traditional American meal pot-luck style with community members. The event introduces refugees, for the first time, to the quintessential American holiday and spirit of Thanksgiving.
At the Silver Spring event, to be held at 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring MD, 20910, the ACC DC Metro, with the help of community volunteers and donations from local businesses, expects to host over 1,000 refugees and their families. In attendance will also be about 150 community members, 50 volunteers, and members of the ECDC staff.
The event is designed to mark a hopeful beginning for newly arrived families from 15 countries that include among others Afghanistan, Ukraine, El Salvador, and Syria, as they join members of the wider community in celebrating Thanksgiving.
There will be community networking, cultural music, dance performances, children’s games, and food— both traditional American dishes and foods shared by the newly arrived refugees.
While ECDC’s Thanksgiving Dinners traditionally have been held in Arlington at ECDC’s community hall, this year’s event will move to Silver Spring, Maryland, where the African Community Center has a second office.