Ethiopianism is not a onetime agenda

 

BY LEULSEGED WORKU

Ethiopiansm is not a onetime agenda that stood for the sake of media attention or

to get Western ears. Ethiopianism was there in the remote past where there was no

any media that stood for Africa; Ethiopianism was also there when there was no

any human right activist when Africans are suffer in the hands of white racists.

Ethiopia has paid necessary price to retain the dignity of its people as well as the

whole black community.

In his article entitled Ethiopia and Ethiopianism, Professor Haile Labore once said

that Ethiopia is truly a symbol of unity and equality. This unity and equality is

witnessed when people with diverse cultures and value systems have pledged to

live in harmony.

Ethiopians have lots of natural resources that can be change into money. But above

all these precious resources, they have something priceless that cannot be sold in

the global market or can be found in any of online markets. It is the pride of

Ethiopiansm that has never been fall into the hands of foreigners. No matter how

poor they are or what their political condition is, Ethiopians have this priceless

identity.

Several historical land archeological findings have attested that Ethiopians are

among those people who are the origins of civilizations. Almost all civilizations

that are found in Ethiopia are indigenous free from foreign interventions.

Ethiopia is a stimulus for the whole black community. Despite the fact that there is

no slavery or colonialism these days, the courage and historical legacy of Ethiopia

is still an inspiration to the whole world. As it was mentioned by Professor Hale

Labore, Ethiopia is truly a symbol of unity and equality. This unity and equality is

witnessed when people with diverse cultures and value systems have pledged to

live in harmony.

Indeed, as it is indicated by Atlas Culture, it is common to encounter quite patriotic

views among Ethiopians. Many feel their country has great cultural depth and

wealth in comparison to others. For example, there is a general expectation that an

Ethiopian living overseas will eventually want to return or stay connected to their

country (regardless of improved living circumstances elsewhere) as their culture is

incomparable.

Ethiopians also share a deep pride in the country’s legacy and what it symbolizes

as a historically independent African nation. The Ethiopian Empire (also known

as Abyssinia) was one of the last active empires in the world. Its strong statehood

was a key to Ethiopia’s successful resistance of colonization.

 The fact that the culture was untouched by colonialism and continues to be taught

in its original form by its own people is a massive source of pride for Ethiopians.  

Ethiopians are also often keen to point out that they are one of the only African

nations that were not introduced to Christianity by Europeans. Rather, Ethiopia

was one of the first countries to declare Christianity as the official state religion in

333 CE. As such, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church is a strong national symbol and

continues to be practiced in reflection of its historic roots.

While it is often understated, one may find that Ethiopians are very confident in the

righteousness of their faith. Indeed, many have a quiet sense of conviction in their

cultural refinement and morals, seeing themselves as sophisticated and progressive

people. 

It is important to appreciate the legacy and depth of Ethiopian culture in order to understand how Ethiopians see themselves in the contemporary setting. People generally do not view events of recent history (such as the political regimes, wars with neighboring countries or famines) as things that define the country or its people. Rather, most Ethiopians see the hardship and political turmoil of the past few decades as a recent devastating chapter in a much longer history of independence and achievement.

In this way, it is common for Ethiopians to express disappointment or dismay at the fact that most Western perceptions of their country have been formulated around these humanitarian crises.

 Nevertheless, it is also important to understand the political history of the last century, as these hardships have influenced Ethiopian society and shaped the diaspora living overseas.