I was born and raised in a small town, speaking Amharic as my mother tongue. I learned how to behave and act from my parents and the people around me. The way we lived was very close-knit, and I felt responsible for everyone around me. I knew how to behave like a decent girl, as well as when to have fun and when to mourn. Raised by my grandmother and great-grandmother, I was a quiet girl until high school, where I was free to dance and sing culturally in my village. Since I didn’t know anyone outside my area, I was sure everyone acted the same way.
This generation may be fascinated when they read this, but I lived in a small town without electricity for TV or radio in our home. We communicated culturally and lived simply. However, one day something unexpected happened. A newbie arrived, dressed differently with a unique hairstyle and a larger stick than usual. He wore a cloth on his head and didn’t speak Amharic; he was from another area with a different culture. He came to ask my grandma something, and even though she didn’t speak his language, she invited him in and asked me to wash his leg, as I usually did.
I was nervous, but as my grandma and the newcomer communicated through signs and some words in his language, I watched his mouth intently, as if the words were magically forming on his tongue. He had dinner with us and afterwards, he stood and gestured with his hands in the air, murmuring endlessly. I believe he was thanking and blessing God and us for the hospitality we showed him. From that moment on, I learned that Ethiopia is a land of multilingualism and rich cultural values.
Ethiopia is a country that embraces over 80 nations, nationalities, and peoples with magnificent cultural values and varied styles of demonstrations. Currently, the people of this nation are connecting more effectively than ever before on various issues and communal interests. The annual celebration that brings cultural values and identities together is the most vibrant event that attracts many people to share their values with others. The Ethiopian Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples Day, celebrated annually on December 08, has been the best platform for allowing diverse cultures to be displayed and learned with the intention of unity and cooperation.
This day is designated for the demonstration of all nations, nationalities, and people’s culture and identity equally and freely. Celebrated with different themes and mottos since the ratification of the constitution in 1867 EC, this year’s 19th day was celebrated on December 08, 2024, with the theme of “National Consensus for Multinational Unity” in Arba Mich, the city of the Southern Ethiopian Region.
The theme of bringing together these nations is meant to foster national consensus and integrity for broader solidarity and unity as one nation. In the event, people from each nation, nationality, and people were represented with their cultural dress, dances, melodies, language, behavior, and acts. This platform allows those unfamiliar with these beautiful cultures to access different cultural values and identities in one setting.
Social anthropologist Dr. Rajandra Govender was debating on SABC TV show. He said, “Culture day is celebrated when diverse communities pause to reflect on the rich cultural diversity in a given context.” This means that when a day is dedicated to letting these nations portray their cultural values, it is an opportunity to celebrate the cultural wealth of a nation.
In this regard, The Ethiopian Herald had a discussion with three participants who attended this year’s annual Day of Nations, Nationalities, and People’s Day. They were W/ro Fasika, W/ro Kelem, and W/ro Zinet, representing the Agew, Argoba, and Raya peoples from the Amhara region. These women showcased their cultural dress, hairstyles, ornaments, language, and identity.
This writer met with them after the celebration. Fasika described the day as, “I was fascinated by the beautiful gathering of cultures. It was a pleasure to meet various cultural values and spend a memorable day with them.” The other two women shared similar sentiments with shining faces and joyful emotions.
The Ethiopian Herald asked them about the significance of the event from their perspective. Zimzem responded, “I feel pride and unity. Everyone at the program was excited and welcoming. This made me appreciate my identity and have confidence in my people. We were diverse in color but united in the feeling that we are all Ethiopians.” Kelem was amazed by the cultural display in the city, as it was her first time witnessing such a large-scale event. She said, “Everyone at the event was beautiful, welcoming, and optimistic. I learned about humanity through the diverse cultural representations.”
Rajandra, in this context, believed that such a day plays a crucial role in promoting cultural diversity, social cohesion, reconciliation, peace, and economic development. When Ethiopians come together with their cultural identities, taking the time to learn about each other’s cultures, costumes, cuisines, and norms, these days provide an opportunity for the nation to move towards a more cohesive society.
People may disregard or dislike the values of a particular nation due to a lack of exposure to them in practical form. Experts argue that no culture is ‘worthless’ in any nation; each cultural asset holds beauty, value, and reflects the true identity and historical background of that nation. Therefore, such days are valuable in allowing people to learn about and appreciate each other.
One might view Ethiopia’s multilingualism and diverse reality as a challenge to national unity. However, scholars believe that if each nation maintains its culture in isolation, it will struggle to work together as a cohesive society. It is essential for every Ethiopian to learn about national symbols, the national anthem, and stand together on communal issues to promote solidarity and unity.
Sociologists suggest that institutions play a crucial role in building social consensus and unity. Communities and institutions, through policies and laws, can help eliminate antisocial behaviors. Schools and universities can also contribute significantly. Encouraging people to wear cultural costumes, share cuisine, and engage in cultural exchanges can promote unity by respecting each other’s values and identities.
In a nutshell, the cultures and values of every nation should be celebrated through various institutions. Some African countries, like South Africa, have independent institutions that focus on cultural exhibitions. Communicating people’s backgrounds and ways of living effectively is crucial for fostering understanding and acceptance among societies.
This is vital for bringing people together and resolving controversial issues with a sense of solidarity and unity, which is the theme of this year’s National Day. Let’s create more opportunities for sharing the cultures of different nations to enhance social connections, which are the foundation for sustainable development.
BY MEKDES TAYE (PhD)
The Ethiopian Herald December 15/2014
