(Photo: The presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Senator Barack Obama)
Tadias Magazine
By Tadias Staff
Published: Wednesday, August 6, 2008
New York (TADIAS) – In a letter sent to the Democratic support group Ethiopians for Obama (E4O), the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee reached out to Ethiopian American voters and acknowledged their growing support for his campaign.
“Ethiopian Americans have contributed so much to our country and our culture, and it is an honor to have so much support from your community”, Senator Barack Obama of Illinois said in his letter.
“We are working to break all records for voter participation in this election, and I hope you’ll become a part of that effort by registering and voting.”
“I am committed to renewing America’s global leadership and helping people like those I met when I traveled to Africa in 2006, not just because it is right, but because it will help America as well”, the letter continued.
“But in order to do this, I need your help and participation first. I need you to stand up and be counted as an American demanding change.”
The Senator concludes his letter by encouraging Ethiopian Americans to get inloved at the grassroots level of his presidential campaign.
“If you have any questions about voting or you want to get involved in our campaign, I hope you’ll talk to your local organizers”, he said. “Thank you again for reading this letter and for voting. Together, we will create the change we seek.”
The letter was sent to Tadias by members of E4O (Ethiopians for Obama):
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Wow, what a great news! We have heard today that barrack has understood our effort.
Having written extensively on Ethiopia, taught in the country, and worked
there as USAID Regional Democracy and Governance advisor in the mid 1990s,
be delighted to help the Obama campaign in this area.
JH
Dear Tadias Staff,
I read and reread the letter Barack Obama wrote to the Ethiopian American Community. I am delighted that Obama clearly acknowledged the contributions of the Community to the country and to the culture. He also hinted that, if elected, he is going to have an active foreign policy with the intent of helping people in Africa. That means we should exert even more efforts to make sure that he is elected. By supporting his candidacy and by actively particpating in the political process, we are empowering ourselves.
Furthermore, the letter is historic. This is the first time that the Community has received a letter from a presediential candidate. It is indeed a great achievement for the Community to be recognized in such a manner. I think we should take his advce seriously regarding voting. We should stand up and be counted as Americans demanding change, as he puts it. That means those of us who have not registered to vote should immediately register to vote in the coming crucial presidential election.
Again, I would like to congratulate the works of E4O. Our voices are being heard and that indeed is good news.
Ayele Bekerie
I am saddened by the support of Ethiopians for Mr. Obama. His stance on abortion (against life and pro-choice) is one huge reason I wish more Ethiopian-Americans would reconsider and NOT vote for Mr. Obama. Please look closely at what he stands for before making your decision on who to vote for during this coming election.