| The Ethiopian Diaspora, as a national group and through its continued interest in and unwavering commitment towards influencing the US foreign policy towards Ethiopia, has demonstrated that it has been heard by US policy makers. Ironically, however, US foreign policy is not meant to be driven by what has been aspired and done by the Ethiopian Diaspora group other than US's national interest.;There is no denying the fact that the longstanding diplomatic relationship between the US and Ethiopia has contributed its own share in adding more leverage in glorifying the attempt made by the Ethiopian Diaspora to influence the US foreign policy. Moreover, Ethiopia's image among the African American Diaspora also immensely enhanced their stance towards convincing US policy makers to support Ethiopia's cause.;Though they have some similarities and differences with other ethnic groups residing in the US, members of the Ethiopian Diaspora, both in their organizational pattern and lobbying practice, are found to be less active and less effective. However, given the ever increasing number of Ethiopians settling in the US and their success stories in the economic and social system of the American system, Ethiopian Americans are believed to positively impact and enrich the political system of the US. As a result, the possibility of influencing the US foreign policy towards their homeland -- Ethiopia -- would be much higher and more effective. |
