Title
To recognize the Ethiopian community celebration of Meskel being held in Columbus on September 27, 2019
Body
WHEREAS, Meskel is an annual holiday in the Ethiopian Orthodox church which has been celebrated in Ethiopia for more than 1700 years; and
WHEREAS, although Meskel originated as a religious holiday, over time the celebration has come to represent an important cultural and national celebration for Ethiopians throughout the world regardless of their religious beliefs; and
WHEREAS, the Ethiopian community in Columbus will hold a local celebration of Meskel on September 27, 2019; and
WHEREAS, the Columbus celebration of Meskel will feature traditional Ethiopian gowns and garb, a variety of national foods and delicacies, traditional dance performances of Ethiopian and African origin, and a variety of music, singing, and other entertainment; and
WHEREAS, the Ethiopian community in Columbus and the local celebration of Meskel contribute to the cultural vibrancy of the city and bolster its proud history of welcoming all people into the community no matter where they were born; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council does hereby recognize the Ethiopian community celebration of Meskel being held in Columbus on September 27, 2019.