Public Service Announcement

Dinner and vigil in tribute to disappeared political prisoners in Ethiopia and other war ravaged countries. The evening will feature authentic Ethiopian music and a traditional meal.

Date: Saturday, August 9th

Time: 6:30 pm

Place: Broadway Disciples united Church – 396 Broadway Avenue

Suggested Donation: $10 or pay what you can

Space is limited. Please register in advance by contacting Ali Saeed at 997-0906 or yenat@mts.net

Organized by : Solidarity Committee for Ethiopian Political prisoners. (Winnipeg branch)



Since 1991, a total of fifty- eight Ethiopian nationals have been abducted from their homes or “disappeared” and are believed jailed or killed by Ethiopian state authorities. These disappeared include trade union leaders, journalists, and members of political parties, as well as teachers and students.

The solidarity committee for Ethiopian political prisoners (SOCEPP) is a human rights organization with chapters in over a dozen countries. SOCEPP is calling for vigils to be held world wide to acknowledge these innocent Ethiopians as well as men and women in other countries, who face persecution for their political views.

Ali Saeed the secretary for the SOCCEP Canada has organized the vigil in Winnipeg, A former political prisoner and torture victim himself, Saeed explains the vigil will begin with speeches by community representatives. “There will be an array of candles that participants will be encouraged to light,” he says.” Each candle will be labeled with one of the names of the disappeared.”

In addition, Saeed indicates, there will be information tables set aside with information, petitions for signing and other relevant materials.

Filling out the evening will be authentic Ethiopian music and a traditional meal prepared by locals from the Ethiopian – Canadian community.

Guests will be encouraged to donate $10 each but no one will be turned away based on inability to pay. To Ali Saeed and his fellow organizers, it is the coming together of friends in the wider community for the important event that will make the vigil worthwhile .

“An injustice to any of us is an injustice to all of us,” he says. “This is a good opportunity for all of people of good will to unite behind a worthy cause.”



Contact: Ali Saeed

Phone : 779- 6322 or 997-0906