DC Ethiopian Archives Day

Documenting the Ethiopian Communities of DC

Learn about the People's Archives' initiative to preserve Ethiopian history in DC, digitize your photographs, and listen to live Ethio-jazz.

DC is widely considered to be home to the second-largest population of Ethiopian people in the world (after Ethiopia itself). The city has undeniably been shaped by its Ethiopian residents, just as it has shaped them. At DC Ethiopian Archives Day, spend the afternoon learning about the People's Archives' initiative to preserve Ethiopian history in DC. Throughout the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to:

• View materials from the Library of Congress Collections
• Scan your personal photos with the DC Public Library Memory Lab
• Listen to oral histories from members of DC’s Ethiopian communities
• Display your photographs and other memorabilia in a pop-up exhibit
• Listen to a live performance by Ras Band
• Learn more about how to preserve DC Ethiopian history with the People’s Archive

This program is part of DC Public Library's Connecting Communities Digital Initiative grant project: Documenting the Ethiopian Communities of DC. It is also made possible with support from the Library of Congress and the DC Public Library Foundation. 

If you have any questions, contact The People's Archive at peoples.archive@dc.gov or 202-727-1213.

Images by Elena Bradunas, Washington, DC, 1982. Ethnic Heritage and Language Schools in America Project collection, American Folklife Center.