Independence Day in Seattle

On Sunday May 27, Eritreans in the Seattle area gathered at the volunteers Park to celebrate the 16th anniversary of Eritrean Independence. Despite the rain and cold temperatures Eritreans attended this memorable event in great numbers. 

The park was filled with the aroma of Habesha coffee being prepared by Eritrean mothers sitting under the toll trees surrounding the park. They  served Himbasha, tea and our traditional drink Sewa to anyone who joined them at the fire place. Eritrean music was being played loudly. Kids were playing and jumping in their kids kingdom, which was a giant inflated tower, while enjoying candies and sweet cookies sold by fellow youngsters who raise money for the orphans in Eritrea. The atmosphere was perfect. The cold temperature and the absence of sun was not a match to the desire to celebrate freedom.

The Eritrean dance group started the event by singing the national anthem and performing fantastic cultural show and entertainment. The show lasted for almost an hour and it was one of the best shows ever performed by the young but talented Eritreans. The kids cared so much for Eritrea that they were ready to endure the harsh weather and perform all their shows bare footed and wearing traditional Eritrean dresses which does not include a winter coat. It was really cold and the kids deserve great respect for the work they did. That respect was shown by the audience when they were asked to fund the trips this cultural dance group is planning to undertake this summer.  Thousands of dollars was collected within minutes during live announcement of the contributions.

Kids, we love you very much. If the applause and ovation was not up to your expectation, you probably understand why. Those who have not accumulated enough fat in their body were shivering from the harsh cold with their hands inserted in their warm pockets. It sounds like we need to serve fatty hamburgers next yearJ

Believe me every one has enjoyed your show. This was your day. Eritrea is about building the future and you are the future. Keep it up!