About Us

The OCO is created to foster unity of purpose and networking among the Oromo people, and to promote the preservation, continuity and development of the Oromo language, culture and traditions. Founded on the enduring concept of Oromuma, the OCO serves the interests of all Oromos.

Cognizant of the national and international threats to the continuity of Oromo identity, language, culture, and history due to oppression, assimilation, and loss of affiliation, the OCO mission transcends the physical borders of its Washington D.C. area. The OCO management seeks to strengthen the Oromo identity, and values in cooperation with other Oromo communities in North America and around the world. The specific objectives are:

1. Provide immigration and other social assistance services to new Oromo immigrants and refugees;
2. Provide health awareness and education services to members and the community at large;
3. Promote self-help and social assistance among the Oromo residing in the Washington DC area in order to strengthen individual life, family unity, and group survival in times of emergencies and social needs;
4. Create a window of connection and continued engagement with events in Oromia, through a regular media and communication? service program that provides current news, and highlights human rights, political and economic development issues;
5. Promote the preservation, continuity and development of the Oromo language (Afaan Oromo), culture, and historical heritage through education; and;
6. Provide entertainment and opportunities for formal and informal networking among the Oromo.

OCO elects its leaders annually through a democratic process. This includes the board of directors, executive committee, and various functional sub committee.