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Global Commemoration of Oromo Martyrs’ Day – April 15, 2025

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“Honoring the Fallen, Renewing the Struggle for Oromia’s Liberation”

We extend a heartfelt invitation to Oromo communities, allies, and justice advocates worldwide to join us in observing Oromo Martyrs’ Day on April 15, 2025. This solemn day commemorates the sacrifices of Oromo heroes who laid down their lives for freedom, justice, and the liberation of Oromia.

Why April 15? The Legacy of the Shinnigga Martyrs

On April 15, 1980, eleven leaders of the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) were executed in Shinnigga, Somalia, while on a diplomatic mission to secure international support for the Oromo struggle. Their refusal to divide along religious lines—declaring “We are Oromos first!”—cost them their lives but cemented their legacy of unity and resistance.

Since 1984, April 15 has been observed globally as:

  • A day of remembrance for all Oromo martyrs.
  • A day of recommitment to the unfinished struggle for Oromia’s liberation.

How to Participate in the 2025 Commemoration

1. Memorial Ceremonies (In-Person & Virtual)

  • Time: 1:00 PM (Local Time Worldwide)
  • Program Highlights:
    • Memorial Service: Honor martyrs with prayers (weedduu), songs (geerarsa), and candlelight vigils.
    • Speeches: Leaders and elders will discuss:
      • The history of Oromo Martyrs’ Day.
      • The current state of the Oromo struggle (e.g., OLF’s Oath Campaign, political prisoners, forced conscription).
    • Q&A Session: Open dialogue on strategies to advance Oromo liberation.

2. Global Events

  • Oromia (Underground): Secret gatherings at symbolic sites (rivers, mountains).
  • Diaspora (Public):
    • Minneapolis, USA: Community vigil at the Oromo Community Center.
    • Melbourne, Australia: Panel discussion with exiled Oromo activists.
    • Berlin, Germany: Film screening (“The Blood of Shinnigga”).
  • Virtual Participation: Livestreams via varies Oromia Media (OM) and social media (#OromoMartyrsDay2025).

3. Advocacy Actions

  • Demand Justice: Petition the UN to investigate the 1980 Shinnigga massacre and ongoing abuses in Oromia.
  • Support Prisoners: Write letters to Oromo political detainees.
  • Amplify Voices: Share martyrs’ stories using #OromoMartyrsDay2025.

Saluting the Martyrs: Their Legacy Lives On

This day is not only about grief—it is about action. We honor:

  • The Shinnigga 11 (April 15, 1980) and Gidamii 9 (December 23, 1981, poisoned).
  • Haacaaluu Hundeessaa (2020), Irreecha Massacre victims (2016), and thousands unnamed.
  • Recent OLA fighters fallen in the Shinnigga Oath Campaign.

Their blood cries: “Qabsoon itti fufa!” (“The struggle continues!”).

Join Us in the Fight for Oromia’s Future

  • Attend: Find local events at OromoLiberationFront.org.
  • Donate: Support Oromo political prisoners and OLF’s humanitarian efforts.
  • Educate: Teach the next generation about Oromo martyrs.

“Ammas akkuma bishaan fincaa’aa ol kaana!
(Like the ever-flowing river, we rise again!)“

Contact:

Qabsoon itti fufa!
Oromia Shall Be Free!

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