Representing about a third of Ethiopia's approximately 120 million people, the Oromo are the largest of Ethiopia's approximately 80 peoples. Crowned in 1889, Emperor Menelik and his successors gradually imposed the Amharic language and culture as the Ethiopian national model, denying the Oromo their traditions. “Previous generations paid a high price so that our generation could come here to celebrate” Irreecha, Sabkeba Gezu recalls. But his popularity has fallen as far as Oromia and many Oromos are struggling to hide their disappointment. However, it is a little better, we can come here and freely celebrate our culture,” said Ababa Korsa, a 30-year-old accountant.
