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Press Statement August 6, 2025

ECDC Calls for Urgent Action to Prevent Further Migrant Deaths at Sea

Arlington, Va. (August 6, 2025) – The Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC) mourns the tragic loss of at least 68 migrants and expresses deep concern for the 74 others reported missing after a boat carrying approximately 154 individuals, believed to be Ethiopian nationals, capsized off Yemen’s southern coast. This devastating incident, confirmed by the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM), highlights the extreme dangers faced by migrants forced to undertake perilous smuggling routes.

Stories June 30, 2025

Community Rallies Together at 2nd Annual “Run for Refugees” 5K to Support Newcomers

Arlington, Va. (June 30) — Under clear blue skies, ECDC’s second annual Run for Refugees 5K Run/Walk brought together nearly 200 runners, walkers, and supporters on Sunday, June 29, uniting the community in solidarity with refugees rebuilding their lives in the U.S. The event, organized in collaboration with Jay Wind, Director of the Safety and Health Foundation, featured a 5K race, a Kids’ Kilometer fun run, and a vibrant post-race picnic, raising critical funds for ECDC’s refugee programs.

Press Statement June 18, 2025

Celebrating Freedom’s Journey This Juneteenth

Arlington, Va. (June 18) – Juneteenth honors Black resilience, liberation, and triumph. We commemorate generations of Black Americans who endured slavery, fought for emancipation, and built thriving communities despite oppression. Their courage not only changed history but also paved the way for all those who have sought freedom and dignity in the United States. We continue to support their ongoing efforts to move forward.

Press Statement June 5, 2025

ECDC Urges Reevaluation of Travel Restrictions

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.

In the news May 28, 2025

ECDC Hosts 28th Annual Fundraising Gala, Celebrates Humanitarian Leadership and Community Impact

Arlington, Va. – On Thursday, May 22, 2025, the ECDC hosted its 28th Annual Fundraising Gala at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel. The evening brought together nearly 470 guests, including community leaders, elected officials, nonprofit partners, and supporters, to reflect on ECDC’s 42 years of service and to raise funds for ongoing refugee and community support programs.

Press Statement April 22, 2025

Honoring Pope Francis: A Legacy of Compassion, Justice, and Hope

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.