Boston, Massachusetts — In a jubilant and colorful night, on Saturday, December 17, 2005, in the presence of statesmen and Ethiopians from all walks of life, young and old, men and women in Boston, Artist Tamagn Beyene was received “Man of the Year” Award in North America in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the struggle for democracy in Ethiopia.

Tamagn is an organizer, founder and member of two important non-profit organizations: “Ene Le Hagere” and “Friends of Ethiopian Journalists.” Through Ene Le Hagere he has supported grass-root democratic organizations advancing the struggle for democracy in Ethiopia. Friends of Ethiopian Journalists organization has been playing critically important advocacy role in defending and promoting free and independent media in Ethiopia. The award signifies the valuable support of Ethiopians to those who uphold the banner of liberty in the fight for the establishment of democracy and the rule of law in Ethiopia.

Bostonian Ethiopians were extremely happy on successfully organizing and bringing together the community. The success of the event was achieved as a result of the entire community involvement and the hard work delivered by the organizing groups.

A report on this grand event will be released soon for the community. The proceeds obtained from this grand occasion will be sent to Ethiopia to support families of the victims of Meles Zenawi’s brutal dictatorship.