The Ethiopian Community in the Greater Toronto Area (GTASA)
Overview
Ethiopia, known as the "land of origins" and the "cradle of mankind," is one of the world’s oldest nations. Located in Northeast Africa, Ethiopia is celebrated as the only African country never colonized, inspiring many other African nations in their fights for independence. Ethiopians commemorate Adwa Victory Day on March 1 each year to honor their historical triumph over colonial forces. With a rich history spanning over three millennia, Ethiopia’s ancient civilization is evident in iconic landmarks such as the Axum obelisk, the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, and the castles of Gondar. The country is also home to Ge’ez, one of the world’s oldest scripts still in use today.
Historical Background
Until 1974, Ethiopia was ruled by monarchs from the Solomonic and Zagwe dynasties, both claiming descent from the Biblical King Solomon. This era ended with the overthrow of Emperor Haile Selassie, the last Solomonic ruler, ushering in the Marxist military regime of the Derg. This period brought severe oppression, displacement, and significant conflicts in the north involving Eritrean separatists and Tigrayan rebels, leading to national instability. Since the early 1990s, Ethiopia has faced additional political challenges that have led to ethnic-based division, prompting tens of thousands to flee and their homeland.
Ethiopians in the GTA
Today, close to 100,000 Ethiopians call the Greater Toronto Area home. Ethiopia’s remarkable diversity is reflected in its more than 86 ethnic groups, including such as the Afar, Tigray, Oromo, Amhara, Somali, Wolaita, Gurage, Sidama, Gambella, Benishangul, Kembata, and Harari. In the GTA, widely spoken Ethiopian languages include Amharic, Tigrinya, Oromo, Harari, and Gurage.
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Places to Go
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Toronto boasts several Ethiopian restaurants and cafes, especially in the east around Greenwood and Danforth, and in the west near Ossington and Bloor. These establishments offer the community and visitors a taste of Ethiopia's diverse and flavorful cuisine.
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Religious Centers, Schools, and Institutions
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Ethiopians in Toronto practice both Christianity and Islam. Ethiopian Christians include followers of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, Roman Catholics, and Protestants, while a community of Ethiopian Jews maintains its unique traditions.
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Holidays and Celebrations
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- National Holidays
- Adwa Victory Day – March 1
- Ethiopian New Year – September 11
- Meskel (Finding of the True Cross) – Last week of September
- Religious Holidays
- Coptic Christmas – January 7
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Media Outlets
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Several Ethiopian media outlets serve the GTA, including New Perspective radio, TV, and digital magazine; Berehan TV; and Fidel.com—all providing news, culture, and community programming in Ethiopian languages.
The Ethiopian Association in the GTA and Surrounding Areas
Located at 1950 Danforth Ave, Toronto, Ontario, M4C 1J4, the Ethiopian Association was founded in 1981 to support the Ethiopian community in Toronto. Services offered include adaptation and settlement programs, heritage language training, informal counseling, information and referral, translation and interpretation, advocacy, recreational activities, employment and career support, and a stay-in-school program for youth. This association is crucial in preserving Ethiopian culture, supporting newcomers, and fostering a strong community network across the GTA.
Source: Gezahegn Mekonnen Demissie editor in chief New Perspective media outlet
Picture Caption: Mesert Demeke president Ethiopian Association in the GTASR and Tsedey Gashe Criss committee member at the Ethiopian Association office, 1950 Danforth Ave.
