We will be bringing you reflections from the 4th annual YPFDJ conference that just ended in Washington D.C on labour day weekend 2008. Here is an article from John who came to this conference all the way from Indiana.

Rookie at the 4th Annual Y.P.F.D.J. Youth Conference by John Gebretatose

2008 YPFDJ conference, Washington DC

As I stood outside in the rain among a sea of Eritrean youth predominately 10—23 years-old on Friday proudly singing the Eritrean National anthem, I asked myself, "What am I doing here?" I was in Washington, DC, on August 29, 2008 and it was the opening ceremony to the 4th annual Y.P.F.D.J. (Young People's Front for Democracy and Justice) Eritrean Youth Conference of North America. Try saying that ten times with a mouth full of hambasha.

Auditorium seats filled quickly with 450 plus attendees all representing nearly 30 different states and countries combined. It was 9:30 AM and the conference was about to start—the electricity, however, was not. A power outage was the result of a thunderstorm that caused a tree branch to fall on a nearby power line. Nevertheless, if anyone knows about Eritrean resilience, than a couple of raindrops and power loss is nothing that can't be solved. With electrical engineers, college professors, bio chemists, in the room—it only took few hours to rent a power generator rather than sitting back helplessly waiting for the power company to repair the damage.

I spent that time traipsing about the campus, walking through dim halls. I began thinking about my days as a four year-old playing in the streets of South Minneapolis, Minnesota. I pictured myself laughing and joking with friends and family in either Tygrinia or English. Today, I find myself as a 25 year-old who still jokes with friends and family, however, when Tygrinia is spoken I find myself being, that guy, the one that can only sort of understand, but can't fully speak in it. Yet, I don't feel any less Eritrean—with nine different tribes that make up Eritrea I'm sure I will never be an outcast. There's simply far too much compassion running through the veins of my fellow countrymen for me to ever feel inadequate or not as an equal.

Walking through the campus I overheard conversations about: world politics, Eritrea's history, and who-thought-who was cute. The youth were able to conduct themselves in a respectful manner, which conveyed the level of respect the Eritrean youth have for one another.

When a power generator was installed, we returned back to the auditorium. Bitsai Germai Gebremariam, the Ambassador of Eritrea spoke about the purpose of the yearly conference. Next, Bitsai Yemane Gebreab, the Presidential Advisor and PFDJ Head of Political Affairs gave practical lessons on how to honor Eritrea's past while upholding Eritrea's future. Backed by three main points, the power of an idea, the power of purpose, and the power of an organization. Although the majority of the conference was spoken in English, there were phrases that would often pass me by–thankfully I sat by Y.P.F.D.J. member Muna Jehar from Oakland, CA who kindly interpreted phrases that I didn't understand. Needless to say, I was late to Mr. Yemane Gebreab's funny comments, which led to me awkwardly laughing behind everyone else. You would think I was in China watching the conference live on my laptop.

During the seminar there were Q & A sessions, group photos, nightly concerts with headline acts and a final dinner hosted by the parents of the local DC attendees. In addition, 30 different state representatives gave a power point presentation on last year's ups and downs.

Some states entertained us with singing, dancing, and performing skits. The Atlanta chapter hit the stage wearing all white T-shirts and youthful smiles. They sang songs and a young girl read a poem she wrote, which received electrifying applause.

Throughout the weekend Mr. Yemane Gebreab spoke about: Eritrea's ancient history, 20th century history, and Eritrea today. He covered some of the country's political issues that grew out of each period. When he spoke about Eritrea's army being 30% women during the war my heart was touched, I was grateful to be able to identify with a progressive country, and to be the son of a brave mother willing to die for her country.

At one point during the conference, Mr. Yemane Gebreab was giving a lecture and asked everyone if it was a good time to take a lunch break. I gathered my stuff, and turned my cheek towards the exit aisle. As I began heading towards french fries and pasta salad, everyone in the auditorium yelled, "No." They wanted Bistai Yemane to speak for as long as he needed, and he humbly continued. Meanwhile I sat down in awe of the amount of patience and respect the youth has for their speaker.

During the conference I observed what was beyond the surface. I saw a passionate youth that honors and respects their elders. I saw a community of people, whose love for their country grows stronger everyday. I saw a unified culture, whose resilience continues to inspire one another. For me, this conference taught me a lot about Eritrea, and it let me know I have a lot to learn. I left with new friends, a fresh new attitude about my national identity, and an even stronger appreciation for my parents. Lastly, I learned a common saying which translates to "Victory to the Masses." I'll be working on my Tigryinian, and at next year's conference I'll be able to shout "Awet N'Hafash," with the masses.