Oromia at Federation Square

Oromia @ Federation Square is one of the biggest Oromo Community festivals held every year. Since the beginning, Oromo people from across Australia congregated at Federation Square to celebrate and commemorate the beauty of Oromo culture. The Oromo are descendants of the Eastern-Kushitie group of people, Indigenous Africans from the country Oromia in Northeast Africa. With a population of over 40 million, the Oromo community is one of the largest Indigenous groups in East Africa. Organised by the Australian Oromo Community Association in Victoria in conjunction with Melbourne Oromo Youth Association, Oromia @ Federation Square was a jam-packed cultural extravaganza that delighted the energetic crowd.

Oromia @Federation Square is a day the Oromos in Melbourne will share their rich culture with everyone in Australia.  We aim to bring Oromo people together, irrespective of age, gender and belief, to help promote self-empowerment. We also seek to educate the public on the lifestyle, culture and ethics of members of the Australian Oromo community. Also, we will be sharing experiences, positively exploring our differences and understanding the many other cultures that make up our societies. Furthermore, it’s a time to celebrate and commemorate the beauty of Australian Oromo culture and to promote both multiculturalism and diversity across Australia.

On Sunday 22 December 2013 from 2:30pm, there will be a cultural exhibition and Oromo food on offer. The performances will begin with release doves in a ceremony to celebrate freedom and independence. Traditional dance medleys, wedding re-enactments, hip hop performances, a live band, and children’s entertainment all provides the crowd with a taste of Oromo culture and helped celebrate 25 years since the establishment of the Australian Oromo Community.

The celebration of Oromia at Federation Square marks the beginning of yet another exciting year of events that aim to bring the case of the Oromo cause. All the best to the Australian Oromos who will continue making contributions to the global Oromo cause in 2013 and beyond.

Join the celebrations with the Oromo Community at their annual festival at Fed Square.  Take part in interactive performances, watch vibrant dance medleys and admire colourful arrays of traditional jewels and costumes.