National Day
May 28, Wednesday
Historical context
Ethiopian National Day is timed to mark the anniversary of the fall of the Derg military junta, which ruled the country from 1974 to 1991. This date symbolizes the end of a repressive regime and the beginning of a new era in the country's history. On May 28, 1991, the forces of the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) entered the capital, Addis Ababa, marking the victory of the rebels and the fall of the regime.
How it is celebrated
The holiday is widely celebrated across the country with the participation of public officials and citizens. On this day:
* Official ceremonies and parades are held
* Cultural events and concerts are organized
* Wreaths are laid at monuments to the victims of the Derg regime
* Schools and institutions host lectures and patriotic programs
Significance of the holiday
Ethiopian National Day symbolizes freedom, the restoration of justice, and the people's aspiration for democracy. It is not only a day of remembrance for the victims of totalitarianism, but also a celebration of hope for a better future.