25^th Anniversary Celebration of the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) in Ottawa, Canada December 17, 2004

On December 11, 2004 the Eritrean Community in Ottawa, Canada celebrated the silver anniversary of the founding of the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) at the Eritrean Club.

The celebration started in the early part of the day with an Arts and Crafts Bazaar. The bazaar was a success thanks to the efforts of the organizers, Ms. Genet Woride, Ms. Negisti Zerai and Ms. Letekidan Kifleyesus.

Following the bazaar was a dinner and party. The celebration began with a moment of silence in remembrance of our martyrs who gave their lives for Eritrea=s freedom. Ms. Hidat Seyoum, member of the organizing committee, then welcomed everybody and congratulated women on the silver anniversary of the founding of the Union.

Fenon Tewolde, from the Youth Group welcomed invited guests and community members in English. She spoke of the history of the Eritrean women and thanked all mothers, sisters and daughters for their efforts over the last 20 years in Ottawa in assisting with the struggle for independence. She also thanked them for their continued efforts in defending the country by organizing fundraising activities in support of humanitarian and development programs.

Ms. Lemlem Luulay, on behalf of the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW), Ottawa Branch, outlined the many achievements and sacrifices of Eritrean women. She also spoke of the challenges and opportunities faced by our women.

Representing the Eritrean Embassy, the Head of the Consulate and Public Affairs, Mr. Medhanie Menesa, outlined the historical significance of Eritrean womens= role in the struggle for independence and he emphasized the role of the Eritrean Government in assisting women achieve equality in all areas of life. Mr. Menesa discussed the collaboration between the government and the Union in grassroots development programs aimed at improving female literacy rates and vocational training opportunities.

Mr. Hassen Saleh, Chairperson of the Eritrean Community Association spoke in Arabic and congratulated the Eritrean women on their anniversary. He also spoke of the contributions made by Eritrean women during the struggle.

To end the evening Milkan Abraham, from the Youth Group, and Ms. Alganesh Embaye from the Women's Group, read poems in Tigrigna expressing the glory, challenges and achievements of our mothers, sisters and daughters. The celebration continued throughout the night with dancing and music.

Report By: Yohannes Ferdinando Drar