Omar Hassan

1970's Ethiopia was a very dangerous place for young people. Rumors of forced military conscription was rampant. Political climate was toxic. Too young to understand the political climate and too afraid to stay we took the one and only choice available to us, leave Ethiopia and seek refuge in Djibouti. Our journey from Dire Dawa Ethiopia to Kirkland Washington covered approximately 16,700 kilometers/10,371 miles. We traveled by bus, rail, feet, and airplanes. We reached America a month short of three years. On the way we saw and felt fear up close. We also saw and felt kindness in strangers we met. In long distances we covered to get away from tyranny we learned no force can severe attachment we feel for our place of birth. Omar's heart is in Laga Yakka, Harar. Mine is in Achaba, Arsi.