Derg Downfall Day, also known as National Day, is a significant annual public holiday in Ethiopia, observed on May 28th. It marks the fall of the Derg regime, a Marxist-Leninist military junta that ruled the country from 1974 to 1991. The Derg's downfall came about following years of civil war, and the day serves as a reminder of the end of a turbulent period in the nation's history.
On Derg Downfall Day, Ethiopians commemorate the sacrifices made by individuals and groups who fought tirelessly against the oppressive rule of the Derg regime. The day is usually marked with solemn remembrance ceremonies, vibrant nationalist parades, public speeches, and various community activities. It serves not only as a celebration of the resilience of the Ethiopian people but also as a crucial reminder of the importance of peace, freedom, and democracy.
The holiday's significance is particularly felt among the older generation of Ethiopians who lived under the Derg regime's reign. However, it also plays a crucial educational role for younger generations, teaching them about a critical period in their country's past. Despite the painful memories it might bring, Derg Downfall Day is a crucial part of Ethiopia's national identity, highlighting the strength, courage, and hope of its people.