Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC)

In the summer of 2002, I first journeyed to Ethiopia. It was a defining moment that propelled me to look at the world and my purpose in a deeper manner. I discovered a life of service in Ethiopia and I want to share that—to inspire others as I was inspired by the children of Ethiopia. Their strength of spirit is palpable and life affirming. Thus, my aim is to chronicle my endeavor to affect change in the lives of vulnerable children in Ethiopia and the inner growth that has brought to my life.

Monday, February 04, 2008

Uncomfortable Truths...

By: Nasir Al-Amin

At 8 pm a woman in Ethiopia will prepare her daughter for bed, as she prepares herself for work. Although she works more than a 7 hour shift, on average 10 hours a night, she will only earn around $2.50-$3.50 a night. Beyond preparing herself outwardly, she prepares herself mentally for what the night might bring: physical and sexual assault (slapped, punched, and forced to perform sexual acts), mental abuse, theft, ridicule (from authorities and street gangs) as well as the pain and fear of leaving her daughter alone at home.

Everyday in Ethiopia, thousands of young girls and women (some as young as 15) are in the throes of commercial sex work. Poverty has exploited their orphanhood and/or destitute state. This is an uncomfortable truth, but it is their truth, and thus our truth!