Dear Members of the U.S. Congress,

We, concerned Ethiopians in the diaspora, urgently appeal to you to use your influence and pressure the Ethiopian government to immediately cease its warfare against the Amhara people. The escalating violence has resulted in an alarming number of civilian deaths, widespread rape, and internal displacement within Ethiopia.

The Amhara people, one of Ethiopia's largest ethnic groups, have been subjected to relentless attacks by armed forces and militias. Entire towns have been shelled indiscriminately, leading to a significant loss of innocent lives and causing unimaginable suffering for countless families. This ongoing conflict has created a humanitarian crisis that demands immediate attention.

We implore you to consider the following facts:

1. Civilian Deaths: Multiple reports from reliable sources indicate that numerous civilians have lost their lives as a result of targeted attacks on Amhara communities. These tragic incidents include extrajudicial killings, massacres, and deliberate destruction of homes.

2. Rape and Sexual Violence: Disturbing accounts reveal an alarming increase in sexual violence perpetrated against women and girls from the Amhara community during this conflict. These heinous acts not only cause immense physical harm but also inflict lasting psychological trauma on survivors.

3. Internal Displacement: The violence has forced thousands of individuals from their homes within Ethiopia's borders as they flee for safety elsewhere in the country or seek refuge abroad. This mass displacement exacerbates an already dire humanitarian situation with limited access to essential services such as food, water, healthcare facilities, education, and access to the Internet.

It is crucial for Congress to take immediate action by pressuring the Ethiopian government through diplomatic channels:

1. Call for Ceasefire: Urge all parties involved in this conflict – including armed forces and militias –to immediately halt hostilities against civilians across Ethiopia's regions, particularly the Amhara people.

2. Humanitarian Assistance: Advocate for increased humanitarian aid to be provided to affected areas, ensuring that essential resources reach those in need and alleviate their suffering.

3. Accountability and Justice: Demand an independent investigation into the reported human rights abuses, including civilian killings and sexual violence against the Amhara people. Perpetrators must be held accountable for their actions through fair trials conducted by impartial judicial bodies.

4. Diplomatic Engagement: Engage with Ethiopian government officials at all levels to emphasize the urgency of ending violence against ethnic communities and encourage dialogue toward a peaceful resolution.

We believe that your support can make a significant difference in ending this devastating conflict and protecting innocent lives in Ethiopia. By signing this petition, we stand together as concerned citizens urging you to take immediate action on behalf of the Amhara people who are currently enduring unimaginable hardships.

Please lend your voice to this urgent cause by pressuring the Ethiopian government to stop its warfare against the Amhara people immediately. Together, let us work towards peace, justice, and stability in Ethiopia.

Sincerly

- Kidus Tsegaselassie

- Mahlet Zelalem

- Seyoum Demessie

- Mekdelawit Kassa

- Wengel Tsegaselassie

- Kidus Gebremeskel

- Ambachew Demessie

- Simon Seyoum