By Berhane Tadese
Ethiopians in the New York Tri-State area held their annual panel discussion on remembering Yekatit 12 and the Battle of Adwa on March 1, 2025, at New York University in New York City. The event, organized by the Ethiopian Community Mutual Assistance Association of New York (ECMAA), serves as a moment of reflection, bringing together Ethiopians and friends of Ethiopia to honor the nation’s history and sacrifices.
The Tragedy of Yekatit 12
The history of Yekatit 12 is a painful reminder of the brutality of the Italian fascist occupation of Ethiopia. In its quest for colonial expansion, Italy invaded Ethiopia in 1935, unleashing a reign of terror that lasted for five years. One of the darkest moments occurred in 1937, during the second year of occupation, when Rodolfo Graziani, Mussolini’s viceroy in Ethiopia, was celebrating the birth of the Prince of Naples in Addis Ababa.
As he marked the occasion, two young Ethiopian patriots, Abraham Deboch and Moges Asghedom, launched an attack on Graziani by throwing hand grenades at him. Though he was injured, he survived. In retaliation, Graziani ordered a brutal massacre, unleashing his troops to murder and burn their way through Addis Ababa. The massacre of Yekatit 12, 1929 (Ethiopian calendar), saw an estimated 30,000 innocent Ethiopians killed within just three days. The atrocities committed during this period,” including mass executions, arson, and looting, have been well-documented in historical records, in Ian Campbell’s book, The Plot to Kill Graziani, a book titled Prevail by Jeff Pearce, etc.
Each year, on Yekatit 12, Ethiopians pay tribute to the victims of this horrific event and honor the patriots who sacrificed their lives for their country’s freedom. ECMAA continues this tradition, observing Martyrs’ Memorial Day to ensure these stories are passed to future generations.
The Victory of Adwa: A Defining Moment in African History
While the tragedy of Yekatit 12 is a moment of mourning, the Battle of Adwa symbolizes Ethiopian resilience and African independence. As Ethiopia celebrates the 129th anniversary of this historic victory, it is essential to reflect on its significance.
On March 2, 1889, Emperor Menelik II signed the Treaty of Wuchale with Italy. However, a dispute arose when the Italians falsely claimed the treaty made Ethiopia a protectorate of Italy. Once Menelik discovered this deception, he rejected the treaty and refused to surrender Ethiopia’s sovereignty. In response, Italy declared war and sent an invasion force to subdue the country.
Determined to defend Ethiopia’s independence, Emperor Menelik II and his wife, Empress Taytu Betul (an influential figure in the anti-colonial resistance), rallied a massive multi-ethnic army from all corners of the nation. Under his leadership, Ethiopian forces resoundingly crushed the Italian colonial army at the Battle of Adwa on March 1, 1896. This resounding victory shattered European colonial ambitions in Ethiopia and inspired liberation movements across Africa and the Caribbean. The triumph at Adwa remains a source of national pride and a testament to Ethiopia’s unity, endurance, and resistance against foreign domination.
Emperor Menelik II, revered by his people and respected worldwide, passed away on December 12, 1913. His legacy continues to inspire generations, and his victory at Adwa remains a defining moment in Ethiopian and African history.
Adwa’s Legacy in the Modern Era
In February 2025, during the 38th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, referenced the Battle of Adwa, emphasizing that the spirit of resistance against colonialism should live on in all Africans. As Ethiopians mark this anniversary, we recognize the sacrifices of our forefathers and celebrate Adwa as one of the most significant milestones in Ethiopian history.
By commemorating Remembrance Day Yekatit 12 and the Victory Battle of Adwa, Ethiopians honor the resilience of their ancestors, mourning their losses while celebrating their victories. These historical events are potent reminders of the country’s fight for freedom and justice.
Editor’s Note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com
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