Date of Conferral

7-22-2025

Degree

Doctor of Public Administration (D.P.A)

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Mark Gordon

Abstract

Ethnic federalism in Ethiopia has garnered significant scholarly attention for its role in shaping ethnic identity, governance, and national cohesion. However, limited research has explored how this political structure affects Ethiopian diaspora communities. This study addressed the problem of increasing ethnic divisions among Ethiopian immigrants in the Denver metropolitan area, which challenges community integration and shared national identity. Despite the growing presence of Ethiopian Americans, the literature lacks an in-depth understanding of their perspectives on ethnic federalism. The purpose of this ethnographic qualitative study was to explore how Ethiopian immigrants in Denver perceive its impact on their social, political, and economic experiences. Guided by ethnic identity theory and federalism theory, the study employed semi-structured interviews with 10 purposively selected participants. Data was analyzed using open and axial coding through qualitative software. Participants reported that ethnic federalism institutionalizes ethnic division, fosters political fragmentation, and weakens national unity. They expressed a strong longing for cohesion and concern over the intergenerational transmission of ethnic division. Findings suggest that fostering unity, inclusivity, and civic engagement within the diaspora and between the diaspora and Ethiopia is essential for overcoming the challenges of ethnic federalism. Implications for social change involve providing information to policymakers, community leaders, and nonprofits to support community development that is inclusive of all ethnic groups.

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