Arlington, VA (June 5, 2025) – The Ethiopian Community Development Council, Inc. (ECDC) acknowledges the complex security considerations behind the president’s recent travel ban but expresses profound concern that these measures disproportionately restrict lawful travel for millions based on nationality—with a particularly heavy impact on African and Muslim-majority nations. Such broad limitations risk perpetuating harmful stereotypes while failing to address global security threats comprehensively.
Arlington, VA (May 13, 2025)- ECDC today reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting refugees, asylum seekers, and vulnerable individuals—regardless of their country of origin, ethnicity, race, color or background.
Arlington, Va. (April 21) – It is with profound sorrow and deep respect that we at ECDC mourn the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis on April 21, 2025. A spiritual leader of global impact, Pope Francis was a tireless advocate for the dignity and rights of refugees, immigrants, and all those forced to flee their homelands.
Arlington, Va. (April 14, 2025)— The Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC) is pleased to announce the selection of Ed and Barabara Shapiro as the recipient of its 2025 Lifetime Humanitarian Service Award. This recognition honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to advancing the rights and well-being of refugees and immigrants globally.
Arlington, Va. (March 5)—The Honorable William T. Newman, Jr., will receive ECDC’s 2025 Public Service Award at its 28th Annual Fundraising Gala this May.
“This award recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to peace and community across our nation. Judge Newman’s unwavering advocacy and lifelong commitment to public service have left a lasting impact on Arlington and beyond,” said Tsehaye Teferra, ECDC’s President and CEO.
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).
Arlington, Va. – (January 30). We are heartbroken by the devastating tragedy that unfolded not far from our doorstep last night near Reagan National Airport (DCA) which is located so close to Washington, D.C.
Arlington, Va. (Jan. 21) – ECDC is deeply concerned about the recent Executive Order to realign the United States Refugee Resettlement Admissions Program. The statement in the Order that “entry into the United States of refugees under the USRAP would be detrimental to the interests of the United States” does not reflect the longstanding contributions refugees have made to our nation. Refugees have arrived on America’s shores for over four hundred years and have contributed significantly to America’s economy, culture, liberty, and the life of this great nation. To suspend the U.S. resettlement program undermines vital bipartisan efforts that have long provided safety to those fleeing violence and persecution.
Today, as we observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we honor the life and legacy of a leader who dedicated his life to justice, equality, and the fight for civil rights. Dr. King’s unwavering commitment to nonviolence and his profound belief in the inherent dignity of all people have left an indelible mark on the world. His dream of a society where individuals are judged not by the color of their skin but by their character continue to inspire movements for justice and equality today.