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On Febuary 18, 2012 the OYSU- Texas (Ogaden Youth & Students Union) held the Ogaden massacre day which shed a light on the mass killing that took place 1994 in the Ogaden region. The youth and Students living in Dallas, Texas came out and took apart in this event despite the cold rainy weather of the season. This event was dedicated to the innocent lives that were lost on that faithful day in Wardheer, Ogadenia along with other towns of the region.

This event also enlightened the Youth about the past and current situation in the region. The Committee of the OYSU-Texas spoke after one another each with specific topic regarding the atrocities which occur daily.Mudane Salah Mohamed set the mood for the event by giving a background history about the region and the problems that it faces. He pointed out that the international communities are not aware of all the past and current massacres taking place in Ogadenia because it is blocked from all humanitarian aid and media. Mudane Abdinasir Mohamed also took the stage to present a very powerful presentation remembering the innocent victims of the 1994 massacres. He informed the audience that the Ethiopian Regime are still claiming the lives of guiltless civilians 18 years later. Mudane Abdinasir ended his presentation by sharing  very touching stories from victims back home and victims living here in Dallas, TX. The event included  video clips such as ‘The ignored genocide,’ which brought  tears to many eyes. Marwo Sahra Mohamed, the president for the OYSU-Texas talked about how the youth can get involved and help those who are being prosecuted daily for no reason. “Now that we all aware of the hidden genocide taking place in Ogadenia, it’s our responsibility to take actions,” she said.  In addition, a special guest, Mr. Jamal Adam, that was representing his region Oromia spoke about the current situation taking place in his region. “We all have the same enemy, and he is no other than the tyrant Meles Zenawi” he said. He was amazed how the Ogaden youth were organized and are well aware of the killings, rape, and torturing of the innocent people who live in different regions of Ethiopia. Mr. Adam also talked about how the TPLF Regime land grabs, burns villages, and sells land to companies around the world. He concluded his speech by saying “with unity there is strength.”

The night was concluded with a dua for all those innocent victims who have been murdered, tortured and raped by the Ethiopian Regime. After all the event was a success. Attendees left with a greater understanding of problems faced by the millions who reside in the Ogaden region. The Youth also left with much urge of wanting to help and asking when the next event will be held. The youth have awakened and are ready to take actions. we can only warn Meles Zenawi and his TPLF Regime, that his time is over and it’s time for him to pay for what he has done to many.

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OYSU-Press Desk