Arlington, Va. – This Black History Month, join us in taking a moment to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and profound contributions Black Americans have and continue to make to American society. It is a time to honor trailblazers like Harriet Tubman and Martin Luther King Jr. and modern icons such as Barack Obama, Chadwick Boseman, and Simone Biles. This year, we also are shining a light on the invaluable role of African and Black immigrants, whose stories of courage, perseverance, and innovation continue to enrich the fabric of our nation.
We at ECDC are deeply saddened by the passing of Asfaha Hadera (March 15, 1949 – February 17, 2024), a visionary leader, fierce advocate, and dear friend. As the founder of the African Services Committee, Asfaha dedicated his life to uplifting refugees, immigrants, and underserved communities, transforming Harlem into a hub of support for the African Diaspora and expanding life-saving healthcare programs in Ethiopia through the African International Services (AIS).