Shareable congressional outreach kit

Message to your members of Congress
Subject: Please press for clear U.S. policy and civilian protection in Ethiopia

Dear [Representative/Senator] [Last Name],

I am a constituent and a member of the Ethiopian diaspora. I am writing because renewed fighting in Ethiopia is putting civilians at risk and raising fears of a wider regional conflict. I urge you to press the administration for clear, evenhanded U.S. action that protects civilians and supports a political path forward.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s October 17 remarks referred to armed groups as “separatists” and to “terrorist attacks.” The wording has caused concern among Ethiopians who believe the current conflict is driven by political grievances and opposition to the federal government, rather than a shared goal of secession. The opposition alliance has publicly described its aim as removing the government and establishing a transitional government. Its members have different histories and political objectives, so broad labels can obscure important distinctions.

I understand that Rubio also urged the Ethiopian government to respond carefully and warned against a wider war. Still, his words carry weight. Ethiopian officials and media have presented them as evidence of U.S. support. Please ask the State Department to clarify what it meant, and to make clear that the United States does not endorse military operations or attacks that put civilians at risk.

Please also urge the administration to:

Engage the Ethiopian government and other relevant parties to halt hostilities and return to mediation.
Press all parties to protect civilians, allow safe and sustained humanitarian access, and support independent monitoring of reported violations.
Explain how the United States will pursue accountability for serious abuses by any party and prevent impunity.
Brief Congress on U.S. diplomatic engagement, civilian-protection efforts, and the effect of recent sanctions decisions.
I am not asking the United States to support any armed group or political faction. I am asking for consistent standards, accurate public language, civilian protection, and a credible political process. Please let me know what steps you will take and whether your office can raise these concerns with the State Department.

Sincerely,
[Your name]
[City, State]
[ZIP code]
[Email or phone, optional]

_________________________________________________________________________________

Please use the link below to identify your representative and send the above communication. 
Thank you for your support 
Justice for all Ethiopians