January 31, 2010: Eritreans from all over the DC Metropolitan area gathered to show their support in defense of the people and government of Eritrea to strongly denounce the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1907 that was illegally imposed on the homeland in December 23rd, 2009. Despite the nasty weather conditions over 1500 Eritreans showed up at the Double Tree hotel in Crystal City, Virginia. The ESMART (ERITREAN SANCTIONS MUST be ANNULED & REPEALED TODAY) movement that started as soon as the illegal sanctions were imposed was in full effect in the DC metro area as the campaign continues throughout the globe. Eritreans all over the world stand hand in hand with their people and Government, and Washington D.C metro as always proved that it continues to be the backbone of the Eritrean Diaspora.
After a very strong introduction and opening remarks by the head of Shimagle (Committee) Mekete Freweini Tekeste who had the audience very motivated from the get go, Saba Sebhatu of NUEYS D.C & YPFDJ showed a video clip on the role of media. The guest of honor his Excellency ambassador Girmai Gebremariam spoke about some of the diplomatic gestures that Eritrea has been extending to the United States Govt. and also expressed clearly that the UN is attacking Eritrea simply because it is not doing what the State Dept. in Foggy Bottom is telling it to do. Following the ambassador’s remarks messages of solidarity by YPFDJ, PFDJ, NUEW, OEA and others were presented. Then came a poem by a member of the audience Girmai Tewolde who had the audience roaring to a standing ovation. Professor Asgede Hagos followed with a brief and short and educational seminar titled “Sanctions That Undermines US Interests in the Horn”.
Dr. Ghidewon Abay Asmerom continued with an incredible seminar that included historical Eritrean quotes and facts proving strongly the UN sanctions are illegal. He used many traditional expressions as well as words from some of Eritrea’s best musical artists. Dr. Ghidewon ended his seminar on a very high note. Next, it was on to the song “Tsinatna” as the entire audience stood up and sang along to the historical EPLF song that expresses the defiance of the Eritrean people.
Finally the public vented their anger against the illegal UN sanctions while also expressing their full support to the Eritrean people and government. The metro Washington D.C area has done it again, proving that the Unity of the people is the secret weapon that will never be broken apart.