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Preserving and promoting Oromo culture in Canada
Ireechaa 2025 - Ottawa
Thanksgiving and Spiritual Heritage
The Ireechaa celebration in Ottawa, held at Andrew Haydon Park, was a truly colorful and memorable cultural event. Organized by the Members of the volunteer organizing committee along with the Oromo Heritage Association of Canada (OHAC), the celebration brought together members of the Oromo community from Ottawa and beyond to give thanks, share blessings, and celebrate their rich heritage in peace and unity. The beautiful park setting beside the water offered a perfect environment for this annual Thanksgiving ceremony, which symbolises gratitude to Waaqa (God) for the blessings of life, peace, and abundance.
The event began with the traditional water-side thanksgiving, led by elders who offered prayers and blessings to the community. Guests who travelled from Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) added great significance to the occasion by participating in the rituals and sharing messages of encouragement and unity. Every participant wore colourful Oromo traditional attire, filling the park with a vibrant display of cultural pride and togetherness. The atmosphere was filled with joy, singing, and dancing, reflecting the deep spiritual and communal spirit of Irreechaa.
After the Thanksgiving ceremony, the program continued with music performances by Oromo artists, which energised the audience and brought everyone together in celebration. The organising committee also presented certificates of appreciation to outstanding community members, business owners, and organisations that contributed significantly to the event's success. These awards recognised individuals who demonstrated exceptional service and dedication to the Oromo community in Canada. The Oromo Heritage Association of Canada itself received special recognition from the community for its leadership in securing the venue, coordinating logistics, and ensuring the success of the entire event.
The celebration attracted not only members of the Oromo community but also Canadian visitors who happened to be at the park. Many of them joined in the festivities, danced with participants, and took an interest in learning about Oromo culture and traditions. This spontaneous participation highlighted the inclusivity and multicultural spirit that Canada values deeply. Irreechaa Ottawa thus became not only a community celebration but also a bridge of friendship and understanding between cultures.
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In conclusion, Irreechaa Ottawa 2025 was a day of thanksgiving, unity, and pride. It showcased the beauty of Oromo culture, the strength of community organisation, and the spirit of peaceful coexistence in a multicultural society. The event strengthened community bonds, inspired the younger generation to appreciate their heritage, and promoted cultural exchange with the broader Canadian public. Photos and memories from the event have been shared on the official OHAC website, serving as a reminder of a day when joy, culture, and gratitude came together in harmony at Andrew Haydon Park.
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