The Amhara people in Ethiopia, one of the world's oldest civilizations, are facing a humanitarian catastrophe. We are a California based civic organization uniting the diaspora to raise awareness, provide aid, and demand justice for our people.
About Us
The Amhara people are one of Ethiopia's oldest and most influential civilizations, a Semitic people with roots tracing back over 3,000 years to the great Axumite Empire. Their emperors claimed descent from the Solomonic Dynasty, and their language, Amharic, became the official language of Ethiopia. The Amhara highlands, home to Lake Tana and the source of the Blue Nile, receive 80% of Ethiopia's total rainfall and represent the most fertile agricultural heartland of the country.
Throughout history, the Amhara have been central to Ethiopia's political, cultural, and spiritual identity. They built the Zagwe Dynasty, shaped the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, and forged one of Africa's most ancient nation-states. Today, with over 38 million people, they remain one of the two largest ethnic groups in Ethiopia.
Yet today, the Amhara people face an existential crisis that has been building for over three decades. Scholars and human rights organizations identify two phases of genocide against the Amhara. The first phase ran from 1991 to 2018 under the TPLF-dominated regime, during which Amharas were systematically displaced and killed across Ethiopia. The second and current phase began in 2018 when Abiy Ahmed came to power. The Burayu massacre in September 2018, carried out by Oromo Qeerroo youth groups on the outskirts of Addis Ababa, marked the beginning of a dramatic escalation. Since then, Amhara civilians have been subjected to mass killings, ethnic cleansing, abductions, forced disappearances, rape, and the burning of entire villages, primarily in the Oromia region by OLA forces and the Oromia Special Force. In August 2023, this escalated further when the ENDF began drone strikes and mass arrests directly in the Amhara region. We, the Amhara Association of California, stand in solidarity with our people and work tirelessly to raise awareness, provide humanitarian aid, and advocate for justice on the world stage.
Our Beliefs
The Amhara people built one of Africa's greatest civilizations. We believe in preserving that heritage, protecting Amhara lives, and building a future of justice, dignity, and peace for all Ethiopians.
We believe every Amhara life matters. The ongoing killings by ENDF, OLA, and TPLF forces constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity. We demand accountability and call on the international community to act before more lives are lost.
The Amhara people shaped Ethiopia's government for centuries, from the Solomonic Dynasty all the way to modern statehood. We advocate for fair political representation, an end to ethnic federalism's marginalization, and a democratic Ethiopia where all peoples have an equal voice.
From the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the shores of Lake Tana, Amhara culture is a gift to all humanity. We invest in education, cultural preservation, and community programs to ensure the next generation inherits this proud legacy.
How You Can Help
The Amhara community in California needs your support. Whether you donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word, every action brings us closer to justice and peace for our people back home.
Your donation directly supports Amhara families displaced by the ongoing conflict, providing food, shelter, and medical aid. We keep overhead low so every dollar goes where it is needed most. Donate via Zelle or Venmo today.
Donate now →The world must hear about the Amhara genocide. Share our stories on social media, write to your elected representatives, and help break the international silence around the atrocities being committed against our people in Ethiopia.
Get in touch →Join the Amhara Association of California and be part of a growing network of diaspora advocates. As a member you'll participate in community events, advocacy campaigns, fundraisers, and cultural programs that keep our heritage alive.
Register →What People Say
The generosity of this organization makes it possible for me to continue having education opportunities in this difficult area.
Wonderful job with those kids that need us and people from various places all over the world. I will definitely join your group as a volunteer.
"The Amhara people have built empires, nurtured the Blue Nile, and shaped Ethiopia for 3,000 years. We will not be erased. We will not be silenced. We stand together, in California and beyond, until justice prevails."
Support Our Mission
While world leaders look away, thousands of Amhara families are displaced, starving, and mourning their dead. Your donation directly funds food, emergency shelter, and medical care for survivors. It also supports the advocacy work that puts pressure on governments to act. Every dollar counts. Every voice matters.
Donate via VenmoTo fundraise or make a donation in another way, please contact us.
News & Advocacy
Research & Documentation
Published reports, academic articles, and field investigations documenting the atrocities and genocide against the Amhara people of Ethiopia.
Watch & Share
Over 38 million Amhara people need the diaspora to speak up. Become a volunteer with AAC and help us organize events, raise awareness, support displaced families, and amplify the Amhara voice in California and beyond. Together we are stronger.
Join Our Community
Fill out the form below to become a member of the Amhara Association of California. Membership is free and open to all who share our vision of a peaceful, united community.
Thank you for registering. We'll be in touch soon with your membership details.
We're glad to have you with us.
Let's Talk 👋
Don't hesitate to reach out with the contact information below, or send a message using the form. We'd love to hear from you.
Email Us Directly
amharaorg@gmail.comOr sign up to receive updates from our community:
