As the U.S. congressional and presidential elections gain momentum, it is imperative that Ethiopian Americans unite to ensure our voices are heard. This fall, fulfilling our civic duty by voting is essential for two key reasons. First, it allows us to advocate for local issues, from improving neighborhood school systems to fostering business opportunities for entrepreneurs and shaping critical regulations. Second, it provides us with the opportunity to influence U.S. policies that support stability, peace, and development in Ethiopia—a nation facing challenges exacerbated by its governing entities. Ethiopian Americans are uniquely positioned to make a meaningful impact.

The American Ethiopian Public Affairs Committee (AEPAC) has released its list of 2024 congressional endorsees, selected based on criteria established by its election committee. This list will be updated as additional candidates receive approval from the National Election Committee (NECC) and the AEPAC board. Each endorsed candidate receives a letter from AEPAC outlining our endorsement and expressing our commitment to ongoing collaboration on both local and international matters related to Ethiopia.

AEPAC chapters, in coordination with the national organization, will mobilize resources to support endorsed candidates in their respective regions. This is especially critical in highly competitive states, often referred to as “swing states,” including Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, New Hampshire, Minnesota, Arizona, Georgia, Virginia, Florida, Michigan, Nevada, Colorado, North Carolina, and Maine, where our efforts can significantly influence the election.